Particle.news
Download on the App Store
20 ARTICLES
·
7h ago

Ohtani Nears Pitching Return After 30-Pitch Live Session

Dodgers say a second bullpen or simulated outing this week could clear him to pitch next week, a development that would reshape their late-season rotation and bullpen plans.

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Los Angeles Dodgers player Blake Snell smiles in the dugout, Image 2 shows Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws a baseball during batting practice
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Ohtani threw a 30-pitch live batting-practice session on Saturday and is scheduled to throw at least one more bullpen or simulated outing during the Dodgers’ upcoming series in Atlanta before the club decides on a game return.
  • Manager Dave Roberts said the team could send Ohtani back to the mound as soon as next week if he has no setbacks, while continuing to limit his early workload to short outings as he rebuilds innings.
  • The Dodgers are adjusting the roster to match that timeline: Tyler Glasnow is expected to be activated from the 60-day injured list to start on Tuesday, Eric Lauer has been moved from the rotation to the bullpen, and catcher Will Smith will begin a Triple-A rehab assignment starting Aug. 25.
  • Los Angeles plans to use piggyback and bulk-relief slots — with multi-inning relievers available to follow Ohtani — so he can return gradually and the club can still consider stretching him into a fuller starting role for the postseason if he responds well.
  • The return plan affects more than pitching duties: it eases pressure on a bullpen coping with injuries and on the lineup while also giving the Dodgers tactical flexibility for October roster construction and matchups.