Shohei Ohtani to Avoid Offseason Surgery, Dodgers Expect Full Health for Next Season

Shohei Ohtani will not require offseason surgery and is anticipated to be fully healthy for the start of the upcoming year, according to Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. This news comes after a 2026 season that saw the two-way star grapple with left knee and right arm injuries.

Friedman stated on Wednesday during an end-of-season press conference that medical evaluations indicated Ohtani only needs rest to recover. This assessment was made after Ohtani expressed uncertainty about potential offseason procedures in the wake of the Dodgers' elimination from the National League Championship Series.

Ohtani's season was marked by a series of injuries that gradually impacted his performance. The issues began in mid-June with left knee inflammation, which he attributed to pitching mechanics. In early July, a pre-existing right biceps concern resurfaced during what would become his final pitching appearance of the season.

Despite these setbacks, Ohtani continued as the Dodgers' designated hitter and maintained productivity at the plate through July and August. However, his performance declined in the final stretch of the regular season, hitting .157 with no home runs in his last 18 games. He also spent two weeks on the injured list in September due to pain in his swing.

During the playoffs, Ohtani struggled, going 5-for-26. His only significant offensive contribution came in Game 4 of the NLCS with a three-run home run, which ultimately proved insufficient.

Both Ohtani and the Dodgers have expressed a desire for him to return to his two-way role in the future. Friedman indicated that discussions regarding the specifics of his usage plan for 2027 and beyond will take place between Ohtani and the team.