Overview
- Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani, who missed four straight games with left-knee, right-biceps and neck soreness, is likely to rejoin the lineup as the designated hitter on Monday if he continues to feel well.
- MLB rules treat two-way players as pitchers for injured-list purposes so any IL placement would carry a 15-day minimum and teams may backdate the move by up to three days, which affects how long Ohtani would actually be sidelined.
- The Dodgers have paused Ohtani’s throwing program since late July and multiple reports plus Roberts’ comments make it increasingly unlikely he will pitch again this season.
- Catcher Dalton Rushing was returned to the injured list with right-elbow discomfort, shut down from catching for the rest of the year, and Eliezer Alfonzo was recalled to provide depth behind the plate.
- The club is prioritizing keeping Ohtani healthy for the postseason and is using short rests, batting-cage work and daily evaluations to balance short-term DH availability with long-term value and roster needs.