Shohei Ohtani was not included in the Los Angeles Dodgers' starting lineup for their series finale against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. The absence of the two-way superstar, who has been managing injuries to his left knee and right biceps, was not previously indicated by the team.
Ohtani has served as the designated hitter in all 11 games since the All-Star break, having received a lubricant injection in his knee during that period. It remains unclear if his absence on Thursday was a planned day of rest.
Teoscar Hernández took over the designated hitter role in Ohtani's place, while Kiké Hernández started in left field, marking his first appearance since returning from the injured list on Tuesday. Earlier in the week, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had indicated that Kiké Hernández was not expected to start against the Mariners, suggesting a potential shift in plans concerning Ohtani's availability.
Despite not having pitched since July 3 and not throwing a bullpen session since July 22 due to knee "regression," Ohtani had shown recent offensive resurgence. In the first two games of the Mariners series, he recorded five hits in seven at-bats, including a home run, two doubles, two walks, and four RBIs, with only one strikeout.
This is a developing story and will be updated.