Shohei Ohtani is back in the Dodgers’ lineup after missing the last four games due to ongoing injuries to his left knee and right biceps. He returned as the designated hitter for Monday’s series opener against the Reds. This was Ohtani’s first game since last Wednesday, when he experienced visible pain while swinging the bat, resulting in a season-worst performance with four strikeouts.
The Dodgers are optimistic about Ohtani's health as the season progresses, especially since he did not report any pain during batting practice in the two days leading up to his return. Manager Dave Roberts stated that the time off was necessary for both Ohtani’s physical and mental health.
Ohtani's return occurred in time to avoid being placed on the injured list, which would have kept him out until the final weeks of the regular season. Although it is unlikely that Ohtani will fully recover before the end of the year, the Dodgers believe that an IL stint would not have significantly impacted his health.
Roberts indicated that Ohtani will not return as a pitcher this season, as the team has decided to pause his pitching progression. Ohtani has not pitched since early July due to injuries. The focus for the Dodgers will now be to improve Ohtani’s batting performance, as he struggled with a 6-for-46 record in his last 12 games before the absence.
Roberts expressed curiosity about Ohtani’s performance in Monday’s game, which will help determine his status for the following days.