Dodgers sit Shohei Ohtani to ‘build him up slowly’ after 2-strikeout return

Shohei Ohtani, the versatile star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, missed their lineup on Tuesday night following his return from a four-day break due to persistent injuries. The designated hitter went 0 for 3 in the game against the Cincinnati Reds, striking out twice and walking once. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani was out of the game well, but after consulting with the training staff, a decision was made to gradually build up his skills and abilities.

The two-way superstar has been plagued by ongoing soreness in his left knee and right biceps. Consequently, Ohtani will not be pitching again this season and will concentrate solely on improving his hitting. He will be available to pinch hit against the Reds, and Roberts anticipates his return to the lineup on Wednesday. In his absence, Tommy Edman took the center field position and led off the game, while Freddie Freeman stepped up as the designated hitter. The NL West-leading Dodgers continued their winning streak with their fifth consecutive triumph.