Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was removed from Friday night's game against the Padres as a hitter in the seventh inning, sparking concern among fans and the organization. Miguel Rojas pinch-hit for Ohtani, who had completed a six-inning outing on the mound where he allowed three runs. The reason for his early exit was not immediately clear, but Ohtani has been dealing with a knee issue for the past month. This injury dates back to a pitching appearance on June 10 and previously caused him to miss a game later that week.
During his time on the mound Friday, Ohtani did not appear to be physically struggling, though he did throw 110 pitches. His performance lowered his season earned run average to 1.79, though his ERA over his last four starts was a less consistent 4.38. At the plate, Ohtani went hitless in three at-bats before his removal.
Further information regarding Ohtani's condition was not immediately available following the game.