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Ohtani Returns to Dodgers Lineup as Knee and Biceps Injuries Complicate Pitching Timeline

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Dodgers designated hitter role for Friday's Red Sox opener after sitting out Thursday.

Asude Karataş • 1 Ağustos 2026 07:00 • 3 dk okuma • 7 görüntülenme

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Dodgers designated hitter spot for Friday's opener against Boston after being rested Thursday due to renewed left knee soreness, though his pitching return remains uncertain as the team navigates both knee inflammation and newly emerged biceps discomfort. The two-way star has not taken the mound since July 3, leaving his availability for the season's final stretch and postseason in question.

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Injury Status and Recent Timeline
Pitching Progression Uncertain

Injury Status and Recent Timeline

Ohtani has been managing left knee inflammation since June 11. The condition prompted him to miss the All-Star Game and receive a lubricating injection during the All-Star break. On Tuesday, the Dodgers disclosed that right biceps discomfort had also developed, further complicating efforts to return him to pitching duties.

The knee soreness that sidelined him Thursday represented what manager Dave Roberts called a "regression" in recovery, leading the training staff to recommend a day of rest. Ohtani remained available to pinch hit but went unused in the Dodgers' 6-2 victory over Seattle. Despite the physical setbacks, Ohtani has maintained offensive production, slashing .263/.344/.526 with 10 home runs across 36 games since the knee injury first emerged.

Pitching Progression Uncertain

Before his injury, Ohtani compiled an impressive 1.79 ERA and 0.95 WHIP across 14 starts, with 95 strikeouts in 85⅔ innings pitched. That early-season performance positioned him as a contender for his first Cy Young Award.

Roberts indicated the club has not finalized decisions about Ohtani's workload moving forward. He noted that Ohtani has been completing plyometric exercises consistently and may resume throwing and playing catch within days. However, Roberts emphasized that "nothing is set in stone" and that ongoing conversations with the medical staff will determine whether a complete shutdown becomes necessary. Baseball operations president Andrew Friedman stated that Ohtani would be pitching if his knee reached full strength, signaling the organization's intention to have him available down the stretch and into postseason play.

When did Ohtani last pitch in a game?+

Ohtani has not pitched since July 3, meaning he has been absent from the rotation for approximately one month as of his return to the lineup.

Is Ohtani still able to hit despite his injuries?+

Yes. Team management has emphasized that Ohtani's batting ability is not affected by his injuries. His offensive output since the knee injury emerged—including 10 home runs in 36 games—demonstrates his continued power at the plate.

What injuries is Ohtani currently dealing with?+

Ohtani is managing left knee inflammation that began in June and received treatment including a lubricating injection. Additionally, right biceps discomfort was disclosed on Tuesday, which has affected his pitching progression.

Could the Dodgers shut Ohtani down for the remainder of the season?+

It remains a possibility under discussion. Manager Dave Roberts stated that nothing is off the table and that decisions will evolve based on how Ohtani feels. Currently, the organization plans to keep him active rather than shut him down entirely.

What were Ohtani's pitching statistics before the injuries?+

Across 14 starts, Ohtani recorded a 1.79 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts in 85⅔ innings pitched, putting him in contention for his first Cy Young Award.

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