Ohtani out of Dodgers' lineup for 3rd straight day with left knee and right biceps discomfort

Shohei Ohtani missed his third consecutive game on Saturday due to discomfort in his left knee and right biceps. This is the first time he has sat out three straight days since joining the Dodgers as part of a $700 million, 10-year contract in 2024. Manager Dave Roberts reported some improvement, stating that Ohtani took swings in the indoor batting cages on Saturday without any discomfort. Roberts will assess Ohtani's condition on Sunday before determining if he will play in the series finale against the Nationals.

Ohtani was reported to be hitting during the Nationals game, with hitting coaches noting he was swinging with intent. However, it remains unclear what level of play he exhibited. The Dodgers have not ruled out placing Ohtani on the injured list, which would require a minimum 15-day stint if he goes on the IL by Sunday. Ohtani has hit .137 in his last 13 games, with one home run and 4 strikeouts against the Cardinals on Wednesday.

Ohtani's performance has been inconsistent, but he has been a dominant force on the mound, posting an 8-2 record and a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts this season. Tommy Edman took Ohtani's place at the top of the lineup for the third consecutive game. Alex Call and Teoscar Hernandez served as designated hitters in the previous two games. Edman hit a three-run homer, and Hernandez had an RBI single. Dalton Rushing, who was scheduled to DH, was scratched due to elbow discomfort and is set to undergo an MRI before Sunday's game.