Los Angeles – After a long weekend to address lingering right‑biceps, left‑knee and neck issues, four‑time MVP Shohei Ohtani is slated to re‑enter the Dodgers’ lineup on Monday as the designated hitter. The move comes as the team opens a three‑game series against the Cincinnati Reds.
Ohtani will line up in his customary leadoff spot, a role that has helped the Dodgers maintain a potent offense throughout the season. In 133 games this year, he has posted a .279 batting average, belted 30 home runs and driven in 80 runs. However, his recent stretch before the injury was rough, going 2‑for‑23 with 11 strikeouts and his last homer recorded on August 18.
Pitching status remains uncertain
When asked about Ohtani’s potential return to the mound, manager Dave Roberts emphasized that the Dodgers have “no timetable for when he’s going to pick up a baseball.” Roberts added, “I’m choosing not to say it’s dead,” indicating the team is keeping options open.
Initially, a stint on the 15‑day injured list was considered, which would have been required for a two‑way player like Ohtani. Roberts later reported that Ohtani’s progress was sufficient to avoid that move, allowing him to return to the roster without the IL designation.
Roberts’ cautious approach
Roberts stressed a measured strategy, focusing first on Ohtani’s health and contributions at the plate. “We’ve put a pin in throwing and just kind of having him focus on the hitting, the running, keeping his legs good and doing whatever it takes to help us win,” he said.
With 19 games left in the regular season, the Dodgers are not committing to a full‑time return for Ohtani in the batting order either. “I don’t want to say it’s day‑to‑day, but I am very curious to see how he comes out of tonight to then make the decision for tomorrow and the ensuing days,” Roberts explained.
Implications for the Dodgers
The Dodgers are hoping Ohtani’s return will bolster a lineup that has been a key factor in their playoff push. While his pitching contributions remain in limbo, his presence as a hitter could provide the offensive spark needed as the team battles for postseason positioning.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely on Monday’s opener to gauge Ohtani’s performance and to see whether any hints emerge about his future on the mound. The Dodgers’ medical staff and coaching crew appear confident that the short rest period has set the stage for a successful return, but the ultimate decision will hinge on how Ohtani feels after his first game back.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
