Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani back as DH after 4-day break; pitching plans on hold

Los Angeles Dodgers' star player Shohei Ohtani returned to the team's lineup as designated hitter on Monday night, following a four-day break due to lingering soreness in his left knee, right biceps, and neck. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed hope that Ohtani's return would mark the end of any lingering physical discomfort.

The NL West-leading Dodgers went unbeaten during Ohtani's absence, including a four-game sweep of the Washington Nationals. However, despite Ohtani's return to the lineup, the likelihood of him pitching again this season appears increasingly slim. Manager Roberts indicated that while Ohtani's pitching aspirations are not currently dead, there is no timetable in place for him to start throwing again.

Ohtani's performance had dipped slightly since the All-Star break, batting .250 with eight homers and 22 RBIs in 41 games. Utility player Tommy Edman assumed Ohtani's spot as the leadoff hitter during his absence, going 7 for 17 with a .412 average, one homer, four RBIs, and five runs scored.