{
  "id": 1322919,
  "title": "Dodgers update on Shohei Ohtani pitching again has major MVP implications",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/16/dodgers-update-on-shohei-ohtani-pitching-again-has-major-mvp",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-16T18:13:57.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/dodgers-shohei-ohtani-pitching-again-181357929.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Los Angeles Dodgers have traded for Tarik Skubal to bolster their rotation, but their need was actually highlighted by the absence of Shohei Ohtani from pitching. Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs has been vying for the NL MVP award, which might have been in jeopardy if Ohtani didn't return to the mound. According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, Ohtani is set to return to pitching in September, which could significantly change the MVP race. If he can return and pitch well, Ohtani might reclaim the MVP award that he won last year. While Ohtani and Crow-Armstrong have comparable offensive numbers, the latter's defense has been a key factor in keeping Ohtani in contention. However, Ohtani's return could swing the race in his favor, especially if he provides additional value in pitching. The MVP race remains an interesting one, with Ohtani's comeback having a significant impact on the outcome.",
  "summary": "This update for the Dodgers two-way superstar is a massive one for the MVP race.",
  "key_points": [
    "Los Angeles Dodgers acquire Tarik Skubal for rotation improvement.",
    "Ohtani's return to pitching in September could alter MVP race.",
    "Ohtani's pitching performance may reclaim his 2023 MVP award."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}