When will Shohei Ohtani return? Dodgers reveal timeline after Mariners absence

The Los Angeles Dodgers didn’t start Shohei Ohtani in the third game of the series against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. Before the game, manager Dave Roberts shared why the Dodgers’ superstar was held back.

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Roberts appreciated Ohtani’s honesty after renewed soreness in his left knee. The Dodgers’ training staff took a call on resting the designated hitter against the Mariners.

“I appreciate him saying that there’s some soreness to then allow me to make a decision for what is in his best interest, and that’s what we’re doing,” Roberts said.

Ohtani wanted to play through soreness, but the Dodgers chose caution. The manager expects the four-time MVP to be back in the lineup on Friday, and if needed, the slugger could pinch-hit in Thursday’s game as well.

“After tonight’s day off, he could come back and feel refreshed and play the next, call it four or five, before the next off-day, or feel after three games that [he’s] a little sore again and need a blow,” said Roberts.

In Ohtani’s absence, Teoscar Hernandez was given DH duties while Tommy Edman occupied the lead-off spot.

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Shohei Ohtani injury update: Latest on Dodgers ace

Due to left knee inflammation, Shohei Ohtani has not pitched since July 3. All this time, the Dodgers superstar is turning up as a designated hitter in games.

During the All-Star break in Philadelphia, Ohtani received a lubricating Orthovisc shot in an attempt to recover faster. However, on Tuesday, the Dodgers reported that Ohtani had right biceps discomfort, which could further delay plans for his return to the mound.

“He has been doing the plyos consistently,” Roberts said in the latest update. “Hopefully this weekend at some point or early next week, he’ll start throwing, playing catch again and building up.”

The right-handed pitcher was having an outstanding year and he was the leading candidate for the NL Cy Young. In 14 starts, Ohtani posted a 1.79 ERA and a 0.95 WHIP, with 95 strikeouts in 85.2 innings.

However, after his recent pitching absence, he is no longer a Cy Young threat. The Dodgers will need Ohtani the pitcher in October, when they’ll bid to complete a three-peat.

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