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yesterday

Dodgers Hold Ohtani Out of Lineup for Start After Roberts Reversal

The move signals a workload-first approach to protect his pitching surge during a hitting slump.

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May 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) looks on from the dugout during the second inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images.
Apr 28, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani (17) reacts after a pitch in the fifth inning against the Miami Marlins at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Manager Dave Roberts, who changed course after Monday’s win, said Tuesday Ohtani would only pitch in what is his third pitch-only start this season.
  • Roberts framed the call as based on body language and focus rather than box-score results, with decisions now made on a start-by-start basis.
  • Ohtani has dominated on the mound with a 0.60 ERA and 34 strikeouts in five starts, earning National League Pitcher of the Month honors.
  • At the plate he is searching for answers, going 0-for-17 in his last five games with a .240 average and an .814 OPS reported across outlets.
  • Los Angeles led the series 1-0 after an 8-3 opener, with Dalton Rushing filling the DH leadoff role Tuesday as Houston turned to Peter Lambert to cover a battered rotation.