Shohei Ohtani Misses Dodgers Game to Be Present for Birth of Second Child

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani sat out Friday's game against the Baltimore Orioles to attend the birth of his second child with wife Mamiko. The team did not place him on the paternity list but confirmed his expected return to the lineup later in the weekend. Manager Dave Roberts announced that no roster moves were made to fill Ohtani's absence, leaving the bench one player short.

Lineup Adjustments and Game Details

With Ohtani away from the lineup, right fielder Kyle Tucker assumed the leadoff position, while rookie Ryan Ward took over designated hitter duties. The delayed announcement of Friday's roster—approximately two hours later than normal—initially prompted speculation about potential health concerns, though Roberts clarified that no active roster players were dealing with injuries. Ohtani had recently managed inflammation in his left knee and a blister on his right hand, but neither issue factored into his Friday absence.

Ohtani's Current Performance

The 29-year-old has maintained elite production levels this season with a .296 batting average and a .963 on-base plus slugging percentage as a hitter. On the mound, Ohtani has compiled a 7-2 record with a 1.47 earned run average, with his most recent pitching appearance coming Wednesday. His second child arrives approximately one year after the couple welcomed their first daughter in April 2025.