The Los Angeles Dodgers are nearing the return of pitchers Shohei Ohtani and Edwin Díaz, but their roles in the upcoming playoff push remain uncertain. Both pitchers took significant steps in their injury recoveries over the weekend, with Ohtani throwing live batting practice and Díaz completing his first bullpen session since experiencing neck inflammation.
Ohtani, sidelined as a pitcher since early July due to a knee injury, faced hitters for the first time since July 3 in a simulated 30-pitch session against catcher Will Smith. Manager Dave Roberts described the session as positive, indicating progress toward Ohtani rejoining the rotation. The team's goal is for Ohtani to make full-length starts, similar to his performance earlier in the season when he posted an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA. However, Roberts acknowledged that Ohtani must continue his progression and pass certain markers. An alternative considered is managing his workload more conservatively, potentially using him in shorter stints or as an "opener."
Edwin Díaz, who has been on the injured list for the second time this season with neck inflammation, threw his first bullpen session. Roberts suggested Díaz could be activated as early as September. This IL stint is also serving as an opportunity for Díaz to address mechanical issues identified by the team. The three-time Reliever of the Year winner has struggled in his debut season with the Dodgers, accumulating an 11.85 ERA in 16 appearances and converting only 7 of 11 save opportunities. Following his return, Díaz will likely be eased back into high-leverage situations to regain confidence and effectiveness before the postseason.
Roberts indicated that the team is not yet guaranteeing Díaz will reclaim the closer role or that Ohtani will make traditional, extended starts in the playoffs, stating that there is still time to determine these roles. The Dodgers have several other strong starting pitching options, complicating the decision-making process for Ohtani's usage. The team is confident in the potential contributions of both pitchers despite their recent injury concerns, and they have enough depth to avoid over-reliance on them. However, questions about their optimal deployment persist, presenting ongoing evaluations as they approach their return to the pitching staff.