Dodgers Adjust Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Plans Amid Persistent Knee Issues

NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani’s left knee continues to cause concern for the Los Angeles Dodgers. As a result, the timing of his return to the pitching mound remains uncertain.

During Sunday’s contest, manager Dave Roberts announced that Ohtani will not take the scheduled Wednesday mound start. The decision follows persistent left‑knee discomfort that the two‑way star experienced while fielding earlier in the weekend.

Roberts indicated that the club has no firm timetable for Ohtani’s return to the mound, though the slugger will continue to occupy the designated‑hitter’s spot in the lineup. He hinted that a prolonged absence is likely before Ohtani resumes pitching duties.

“Our priority is to give his knee the best possible environment to heal,” Roberts explained. “The torque generated during pitching and landings appears to be the primary factor aggravating the injury.”

Ohtani has been sidelined from pitching since July 3, a stretch that began with a knee ailment first reported in mid‑June.

His last appearance before the All‑Star break—a scheduled start on the final Friday of June—was postponed. He subsequently bypassed the festivities to undergo a corticosteroid or viscosupplementation injection in his knee the following Sunday.

The organization had hoped the procedure would enable the 32‑year‑old to resume throwing duties when the second half of the season commenced.

However, the uncertainty surrounding Ohtani’s availability has now deepened.

Roberts attempted to reassure fans by playing down broader concerns about Ohtani’s knee. He maintained confidence that the four‑time MVP would ultimately pitch again this season, framing the current absence as a defensive precaution tied to the team’s favorable position in the standings.

“Certainly, he could still pitch,” Roberts noted. “At present, though, the potential upside does not outweigh the risks inherent at this stage of the season. We believe there remains ample opportunity to bring him back under optimal conditions.”

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