Padres down Dodgers in Ohtani’s return

Shohei Ohtani registered his first hit since returning from injury in the first inning on Wednesday. The Dodgers faced the Padres and dropped a 5-1 loss, failing to secure a first-round bye. Ohtani's timely contribution, however, highlights the importance of his end-of-season stint and its potential impact on the postseason. Manager Dave Roberts expressed satisfaction with Ohtani's performance, stating that the decision to bring him back was the right one.

Ohtani was greeted by a partial standing ovation in his first at-bat, and he again appeared to be on the verge of extending that good run when a challenge call led to a review which ruled his out. The Dodgers' defense faltered in later innings, allowing multiple runs, including a costly error by starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

Ohtani appeared to have a chance for another hit in the seventh inning, but the ball fell short of the wall. Will Smith managed to reach base in the ninth inning, but it was not enough to reverse the outcome. While Ohtani may receive a day off in the final five games of the regular season, the Dodgers will determine his availability based on his condition.