Overview
- Ohtani has been held out of the Dodgers’ starting lineup for three consecutive games, the third coming Saturday as the team monitors left-knee soreness and right-biceps discomfort.
- He has not pitched since July 3 because of knee soreness, and his throwing progression stalled after a recent bullpen session, leaving his pitching return uncertain.
- Concerns intensified after a 0-for-4 game on Sept. 2 in which he struck out four times and appeared to be in visible pain while swinging.
- Dodgers management and GM Brandon Gomes say they are taking a day-to-day approach because Ohtani wants to keep playing and an injured-list move would trigger a minimum 15-day absence under two-way rules.
- The team has adjusted the lineup and used internal depth while discussing short-term rest, possible backdating of an IL move, and roster plans that could affect rotation and bullpen options down the stretch.