{
  "id": 6089507,
  "title": "Shohei Ohtani unlikely to pitch again for Dodgers this season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/shohei-ohtani-unlikely-to-pitch-again-for-dodgers-this-season",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-07T02:41:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Japan Times",
    "slug": "japan-times",
    "url": "https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2026/09/07/baseball/ohtani-dodgers-starting-lineup-out/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way superstar, is unlikely to return to pitching this season, according to manager Dave Roberts. The Japanese star has faced multiple injuries, missing four consecutive games for the first time since joining the Dodgers in 2023. Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 and has dealt with inflammation, soreness, and setbacks after bullpen sessions. While Roberts expressed hope that Ohtani could return to batting as early as Monday, he downplayed the chances of Ohtani pitching again this year, stating that it is unlikely. Ohtani, 32, has been a key player for the Dodgers, leading them to back-to-back World Series titles in the past two seasons. However, his pitching role has been limited due to injuries, including two right elbow operations in 2023. Despite a rehab-free offseason, Ohtani has struggled with injuries to his left knee, right biceps, and neck. Roberts mentioned that Ohtani has made progress in his recovery and could return to action as a hitter against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday, but he is unlikely to return as a starting pitcher this season. Ohtani has played a crucial role in the Dodgers' success, but his injuries have derailed his return to a full-time two-way player.",
  "summary": "Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters prior to the game that Ohtani has made enough progress in his recovery that he could return to action as early as Monday.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "Dave Roberts reveals when Shohei Ohtani could finally return to Dodgers lineup",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/dave-roberts-reveals-when-shohei-ohtani-could-finally-return-to",
        "published": "2026-09-07T00:04:36.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "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."
}