Shohei Ohtani Nears Return to Dodgers Lineup After IL Stint

Shohei Ohtani is on the verge of returning to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup, with manager Dave Roberts indicating the star player is expected to be activated on Wednesday. Ohtani has spent the last two weeks on the injured list nursing right arm and left knee ailments, with his minimum 15-day IL stint concluding on Wednesday.

"Unless I hear otherwise, he’ll be in the lineup tomorrow," Roberts stated. This marks a significant development for the Dodgers, representing a best-case scenario for the team and Ohtani after a period of uncertainty.

When Ohtani initially went on the IL on September 11 (backdated to September 8), his performance at the plate had slumped, and his hopes of pitching again this season were dashed due to repeated setbacks. He had also played in only one of the Dodgers’ previous seven games as a designated hitter, having shown visible signs of pain from injuries he had managed throughout much of the season.

Roberts noted that Ohtani has felt "considerably" better during his time on the injured list, improving from a 5 out of 10 health rating to an 8 or 9. Ohtani was scheduled to complete his return-to-play protocol on Tuesday, which included batting practice in the team's hitting cages and his regular workout regimen in the weight room.

His return could influence the Dodgers' batting order, particularly the leadoff spot. The resurgence of Mookie Betts has provided another strong option, prompting speculation about potential lineup adjustments based on opposing pitchers. Roberts suggested that Betts might lead off against left-handed pitchers, while Ohtani could take the leadoff spot against right-handed pitchers.

With five regular-season games remaining before the playoffs, Ohtani will have an opportunity to regain his typical offensive production. His activation comes as soon as he was eligible after his two-week absence.