Shohei Ohtani rejoined the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup Monday night as the designated hitter, four days after stepping away to manage left knee, right biceps and neck soreness. He occupied his usual leadoff spot for the series opener against the Cincinnati Reds.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed hope that Ohtani would not show signs of discomfort at the plate but acknowledged uncertainty regarding his immediate future. "I don’t want to say it’s day-to-day, but I am very curious to see how he comes out of tonight to then make the decision for tomorrow and ensuing days," Roberts said.
The Dodgers, leading the NL West, won all four games during Ohtani’s absence, including a sweep of the Washington Nationals. Despite his return to hitting, it appears increasingly improbable that the two-way player will pitch again this season. Ohtani has not pitched in a game since July 3 and last threw a bullpen session on August 28.
"We’ve put a pin in throwing," Roberts stated, explaining that Ohtani is focusing on hitting, running, and maintaining his physical condition to help the team win. When pressed to clarify what "put a pin in throwing" meant, Roberts responded, "it’s not dead but we have no timetable for when he’s going to pick up a baseball." He added, "I'm choosing not to say it's dead."
Ohtani's personal reflections remain private, as he has not spoken to the media since August 17. Roberts described Ohtani as pleased to be back in the lineup and comfortable with the decision to postpone pitching plans. By removing pitching from his immediate responsibilities, the Dodgers aim for Ohtani to concentrate on his hitting performance.
This season, Ohtani is batting .279 with 30 home runs and 80 RBIs. However, his performance since the All-Star break shows a .250 average with eight home runs and 22 RBIs in 41 games.
"Yes, he loves pitching, loves being a two-way player," Roberts said, "but right now it just doesn’t make any sense. It’s more of what’s best for the team, number one, and 1A, what’s best for him."
During Ohtani’s four-game absence, utility player Tommy Edman filled the leadoff spot, hitting 7 for 17 with a home run, four RBIs, and five runs scored. Edman was slated to start at second base and bat third on Monday.
Regarding Ohtani's leadoff position, Roberts stated, "I think he’s our best hitter. I think the best player should have the most latitude. Is it forever? I don’t know. Is it until the end of the season? I don’t know yet."