The Los Angeles Dodgers are confronting the increasing possibility of entering the playoffs with a physically compromised Shohei Ohtani, whose effectiveness as a designated hitter is being impacted by ongoing injuries. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has acknowledged that the star player's physical issues are affecting his hitting, a stark departure from his usual performance.
Ohtani has been experiencing discomfort in his right biceps for several months and has also been dealing with significant pain in his left knee. This knee issue has demonstrably limited his ability to generate power at the plate, with Ohtani striking out four times during the Dodgers' 10-inning, 8-6 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday night. His batting stance appeared compromised, as if he were hitting on one leg.
With the postseason approximately a month away, Ohtani's knee condition presents a major challenge. Roberts expressed uncertainty about whether even extended rest would be sufficient to return Ohtani to full health. "Is a day or two, or I mean, shoot, even 10 days, is that going to help get him to be 100%?" Roberts said. "Don’t know the answer, but I think where we’re at, I think he’s just going to have to find a way to make do and do the best he can."
The Dodgers' decisions in recent weeks and months, including allowing Ohtani to play through pain and supporting his attempts to return to pitching, are now facing consequences. Ohtani has not pitched since July 3, and his injuries have reportedly worsened to the point where he is no longer a significant offensive threat. In his last 12 games, he has recorded only six hits in 46 at-bats, with 19 strikeouts and no home runs. Roberts noted that Ohtani's swings do not reflect his usual capabilities, suggesting compensation for his injuries.
Despite these concerns, Ohtani has played in 133 of the Dodgers' 139 games this season. Roberts described Ohtani as having a high pain tolerance and being mentally strong, but acknowledged that the team has learned Ohtani sometimes needs protection from himself and that his body has limitations.
While the Dodgers possess a strong pitching rotation that can keep them competitive, they remain heavily reliant on Ohtani's bat for offense. The team must now focus on managing Ohtani's condition to maximize his contribution in the playoffs, even if he cannot achieve full health. "To expect him to be 100% … I don’t know," Roberts stated, reflecting the team's uncertain outlook.
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman had previously suggested Ohtani might return to the mound this season, but the current focus is on his ability to hit effectively during the postseason. The experience gained from managing Ohtani's dual-threat status and injury issues may prove valuable for future seasons in developing a playing schedule that better ensures his health.