Shohei Ohtani will not take the mound on Sunday against the Detroit Tigers, as he is experiencing lingering knee discomfort and minor issues with his biceps.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated before Saturday's game that Ohtani's knee has not yet recovered and that he is also dealing with biceps discomfort that has affected him previously. Ohtani last pitched on July 3 in a win against the San Diego Padres, throwing six innings. His next scheduled pitching appearance was initially slated to follow Tyler Glasnow, but Glasnow will now start Sunday's game.
Roberts expressed uncertainty about utilizing Ohtani for even a short pitching appearance if he is not at full strength. "The hard part right now is trying to figure out if he’s not 100% in the overall body, is it worth giving him an inning to build him up," Roberts said.
Despite his pitching ailments, Ohtani has continued to contribute as a hitter, maintaining a batting average of .274 with 12 home runs in 45 games since his last outing on the mound. The Dodgers' acquisition of pitcher Tarik Skubal has also provided depth, potentially easing the impact of Ohtani's absence from the rotation.