Shohei Ohtani takes first swings off tee since going on IL and feels good, Roberts says

CINCINNATI (AP) — Shohei Ohtani displayed positive signs on Tuesday as he took his first swings off a tee since being placed on the 15-day injured list due to right biceps inflammation. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani felt good during the practice session in Los Angeles, signaling that he remains on track to return before the conclusion of the regular season.

Roberts, however, refrained from providing a specific timeline for Ohtani's return to the field, stating, "I don’t know what’s in store for tomorrow, but I know that there’s going to be a consistent build-up." The manager expressed optimism about Ohtani's potential comeback, hinting at additional regular-season appearances, "I do expect him to be back to play in some regular season games," though he could not commit to the exact number of games.

Ohtani, a four-time MVP, is currently not on the road with the team but has been actively working out and receiving treatment. The Dodgers have already secured their playoff berth, but Roberts remains uncertain about the exact schedule for Ohtani's return, emphasizing that "I don’t know how many" regular season games he may play.