MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani has revealed that he may not return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers this season, choosing instead to focus entirely on his hitting as the postseason approaches.
The four-time MVP indicated that he will “most likely” not pitch again this season, making a significant change to his plans for the final weeks of the regular season. Ohtani has dealt with several physical issues throughout the year, and the Dodgers appear increasingly likely to prioritize keeping him healthy as they prepare for October.
Ohtani missed the Dodgers’ previous four games before returning to the lineup Monday against the Cincinnati Reds. He went 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts in Los Angeles’ 6-3 victory.
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Ohtani’s pitching season could be over
Ohtani has been dealing with soreness in his left knee, while an issue with his right bicep flared up again during a bullpen session in late August. Those concerns have complicated his return to regular pitching duties.
The 32-year-old has not pitched in a game since July 3, despite producing impressive numbers when he has taken the mound. In 14 starts this season, Ohtani went 8-2 with a remarkable 1.79 ERA. He struck out 95 batters and issued just 26 walks across 85.2 innings.
If Monday’s comments ultimately prove to be his final pitching appearance of the season, Ohtani will have still delivered another impressive campaign on the mound.
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Dodgers focus on October
As a hitter, Ohtani has remained one of the most dangerous players in baseball. He has appeared in 130 games and is batting .277 with a .902 OPS, 139 hits and 30 home runs.
With the Dodgers comfortably leading the National League West, the decision to shut down Ohtani’s pitching could ultimately be about the bigger picture. Los Angeles holds a 10.5-game advantage over the Arizona Diamondbacks with the postseason approaching.
The Dodgers play the middle game of their three-game series against Cincinnati on Tuesday. For Ohtani, the focus now appears clear: stay healthy, produce at the plate and prepare for another deep postseason run with Los Angeles.
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