Ohtani ‘unlikely’ to pitch again this season, says Dodgers manager

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani is unlikely to pitch again this season, manager Dave Roberts declared on Sunday. The Japanese athlete has endured a series of injuries, sitting out four straight games for the first time since joining the Dodgers in 2023. Ohtani has not taken the mound since July 3, grappling with inflammation, soreness, and setbacks following bullpen throwing sessions.

Roberts expressed optimism that Ohtani could return to the batting lineup by Monday, but dismissed the likelihood of Ohtani returning as a starter this year. With three weeks left in the regular season, Roberts emphasized that Ohtani's limited pitching activity over the past week makes a full-fledged return improbable.

Ohtani has been instrumental in the Dodgers' consecutive World Series victories in the past two seasons; however, his pitching contributions have been minimal. After undergoing two right elbow surgeries in 2023, Ohtani did not appear on the mound until last June. This year was anticipated to be Ohtani's return as a full-time two-way player, with the star aiming for the Cy Young Award for outstanding pitching.

Unfortunately, this goal has been disrupted by injuries to his left knee, right biceps, and neck. Ohtani's batting performance has also deteriorated in recent weeks as he attempts to regain his pitching form.