Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Wednesday that two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is being placed on the injured list. The decision comes after Ohtani missed six of the team’s last seven games due to lingering soreness in his right biceps and left knee.
Roberts: Move Was Necessary Despite Playoff Push
“It’s the right thing to do,” Roberts said following the Dodgers’ 14-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday, which Ohtani was sidelined for. “We tried to kick the bucket as much as we could.”
The skipper added that Ohtani would be in the lineup on Thursday “if it were a postseason game,” underscoring the cautious approach with the four-time MVP as Los Angeles pursues a third consecutive World Series championship.
Ohtani Confirms Focus on Hitting for Remainder of Season
Ohtani, who will not pitch again this season due to his injuries, addressed his role moving forward after Monday night’s home victory over Cincinnati.
“Most likely, no,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton when asked about pitching again this season following the team’s Monday night win at home over the Cincinnati Reds, per MLB.com. “I’m going to be focusing on hitting moving forward.”
Dodgers Call Up Top Prospect for Road Trip
Los Angeles is off Thursday before opening a seven-game road trip in Miami on Friday. Top prospect Josue De Paula is expected to join the team in Miami to provide outfield depth during Ohtani’s absence.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
