Dodgers Uncertain About Ohtani's Return to Pitching This Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently uncertain about whether designated hitter Shohei Ohtani will pitch again this season. Ohtani has not taken the mound since July 3 due to persistent pain in his left knee and right biceps.

Recently, Ohtani completed a 20-pitch bullpen session but was removed from a potential start against Detroit shortly after. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated that Ohtani feels physically well, but the team will need to see him throw again before determining the next steps in his pitching recovery.

Roberts acknowledged the possibility that Ohtani may not pitch again this season. Ohtani, who had a record of 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts before his injury, has not played in the outfield since 2021. If he is unable to start, he might still contribute as a reliever, but any transition from designated hitter to pitcher would result in the loss of the DH position for the game.