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Dodgers fans—and honestly, the entire MLB universe—were on the edge of their seats after Shohei Ohtani missed the All-Star Game and had his scheduled start against the Philadelphia Phillies scratched. The culprit? An irritated left knee that sent shockwaves through the Dodgers’ dugout and baseball fans everywhere.
But manager Dave Roberts brought some much-needed fresh air to the situation. Before Monday’s game against the Phillies, Roberts explained that the lubricating injection Ohtani received and his All-Star absence don’t mean the injury got worse—it just hasn’t healed as quickly as everyone hoped. “This is all about giving ourselves the best shot to get him fully healthy,” Roberts said, making it clear the plan is to avoid any setbacks that could jeopardize their superstar’s season.
The last time Ohtani took the mound was July 3rd. Since then, while his knee hasn’t bothered him at the plate, the coaching staff has been extra cautious. Roberts even hinted that Ohtani could try throwing off the mound later this week—maybe Thursday or Friday. That lines up with the Dodgers’ White House visit on Thursday (an off day) and the start of their series against the New York Mets on Friday.
When Will Shohei Ohtani Return to the Dodgers’ Rotation?
The million-dollar question still doesn’t have a clear answer. Roberts was blunt: “I don’t know. He needs to throw again, and then we’ll see.” The process is simple but tricky: Ohtani has to play catch, test out his knee, and if all goes well, then—and only then—can they start thinking about a return date. For now, there’s no official timetable or promises of an immediate comeback.
The pressure is intense. The Dodgers are chasing a third straight MLB title and need their ace firing on all cylinders—both at the plate and on the mound. But the medical staff and Roberts aren’t about to risk a setback that could cost them the season. The top priority is making sure Ohtani is “out of the woods” before he pitches in a real game again.
How Ohtani’s Injury Impacts the Dodgers’ Season
With Shohei Ohtani out of the rotation, the Dodgers have had to shuffle their strategy. Sure, the Japanese phenom is still a threat with the bat, but his arm is crucial for keeping opponents in check as the season heats up. The decision not to rush him back shows just how much he means to the franchise—and how seriously they’re taking his recovery.
The schedule isn’t getting any easier, and the National League race is red-hot. Every game Ohtani misses on the mound is one less chance for the Dodgers to tighten their grip on the competition. Still, the message is loud and clear: Ohtani’s health comes before any win-at-all-costs mentality.
What’s Next for Ohtani and the Dodgers?
The next step is seeing how Ohtani’s knee responds after throwing off the mound. If he feels good, his return could be closer than we think. But if there’s still discomfort, the team won’t hesitate to keep him on the shelf a bit longer. Patience is the name of the game—no one wants a season-ruining setback in LA.
Dodgers fans and MLB followers everywhere will be glued to every update. Ohtani’s return to the rotation isn’t just crucial for the team’s playoff hopes—it keeps the dream alive of watching the Japanese sensation dominate both sides of the diamond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shohei Ohtani’s Injury
Why didn’t Shohei Ohtani pitch in the All-Star Game?
Ohtani was scratched from the All-Star Game due to irritation in his left knee. The Dodgers’ coaching and medical staff decided to prioritize his recovery and avoid any unnecessary risks.
Is Ohtani’s injury serious?
According to manager Dave Roberts, the injury hasn’t gotten worse, but it hasn’t improved enough for him to pitch yet. They’re taking every precaution to avoid a setback.
When could Ohtani pitch again?
There’s no set date. Ohtani will try throwing off the mound later this week, and depending on how his knee responds, they’ll evaluate his return to the rotation.
Does the injury affect his hitting?
Nope! Ohtani has kept swinging the bat without any issues, according to team reports.
What does this mean for the Dodgers?
Missing Ohtani in the rotation is a blow, but the team would rather wait until he’s 100% than risk his health—and the season’s future.
