Los Angeles – The Dodgers are optimistic that two‑way star Shohei Ohtani will be back on the field before the regular season concludes. Manager Dave Roberts observed Ohtani taking swings off a tee on Tuesday and described the session as “positive” as the team prepared for a 4‑0 win over the Cincinnati Reds.
Rehab progress and timeline
Roberts told reporters that while the exact return date is still uncertain, he expects Ohtani to appear in some regular‑season games before the playoffs begin. “Whether it happens or not is to be determined, but I do expect him to be back to play in some regular‑season games,” Roberts said, adding that he does not know how many games Ohtani will play.
Ohtani, 32, was placed on the injured list to rest a sore left knee, a strained right biceps, and a lingering neck issue that caused him to miss four straight games earlier this month. Because he is a two‑way player, MLB rules require a minimum 15‑day stay on the injured list, making Sept. 23 the earliest possible activation date.
Remaining schedule
At that point the Dodgers will have five regular‑season games left: a two‑game home series against the San Diego Padres and a three‑game road series at the San Francisco Giants. The team hopes Ohtani can contribute in those final matchups before the postseason roster is set.
Season performance to date
Despite his injury setbacks, Ohtani has posted solid numbers this season. In 130 games he is hitting .277 with a .380 on‑base percentage and a .522 slugging percentage, along with 30 home runs and 80 RBIs. His dual role as a pitcher and hitter continues to make him a unique asset for the Dodgers.
Manager’s outlook
Roberts emphasized the importance of a “consistent build‑up” in Ohtani’s rehab routine. “I don’t know what’s in store for him tomorrow, but I know that there’s going to be a consistent build‑up,” he said. “Today was positive, and hopefully we can just keep building towards that.”
The Dodgers remain focused on maintaining their winning momentum while managing Ohtani’s health carefully. Fans in Los Angeles and across the nation will be watching closely as the team approaches the final stretch of the regular season.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
