Shohei Ohtani Returns to Dodgers Lineup Against Red Sox Despite Ongoing Knee and Biceps Injuries

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Dodgers' lineup as designated hitter for Friday's series opener against the Boston Red Sox after being rested Thursday due to left knee soreness. The two-way star has not pitched since July 3 while managing both knee inflammation and right biceps discomfort, though his ability to hit remains unaffected. The Dodgers' medical staff continues to evaluate his pitching timeline heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

Recovery Status and Playing Role

Ohtani was held out of the Mariners series finale after reporting renewed soreness in his left knee during treatment. Manager Dave Roberts indicated the decision prioritized the player's long-term health. "I appreciate him saying that there's some soreness to then allow me to make a decision for what is in his best interest," Roberts said.

The knee inflammation began on June 11, and Ohtani subsequently missed the All-Star Game in Philadelphia. Treatment has included a lubricating Orthovisc injection. The right biceps issue emerged more recently, further complicating his return to the mound. Despite these setbacks, Ohtani has maintained offensive production in 36 games since the initial knee injury, slashing .263/.344/.526 with 10 home runs.

Pitching Timeline Remains Uncertain

The Dodgers have not shut down Ohtani from designated hitter duties, viewing rest as an ongoing discussion rather than a fixed plan. Roberts noted that Ohtani has been working on plyometric exercises consistently. "Hopefully this weekend at some point or early next week, he'll start throwing, playing catch again and building up," Roberts stated.

During his 14 pitching starts this season, Ohtani has produced a 1.79 ERA and 0.95 WHIP with 95 strikeouts across 85 2/3 innings. The organization remains optimistic about his availability for the postseason but acknowledges uncertainty about his regular-season timeline. "Nothing should be off the table, and nothing is set in stone," Roberts said.

Series Context

The Red Sox enter the matchup with a 57-51 record and have won seven consecutive series. Their bullpen ranks among baseball's elite, with five relievers in the 92nd percentile or higher in expected ERA. Boston will start left-hander Ranger Suarez, who carries a 4-3 record and 3.02 ERA. The Dodgers will use a bullpen game with Edgardo Henriquez slated to open, preserving their rotation amid Ohtani's absence from the pitching staff.