The Dodgers have had a week full of ups and downs, as although they beat the Rockies and cemented their position as leaders of the National League West, they also suffered the loss of Shohei Ohtani to a right leg contusion.Shohei Ohtani’s injury was the result of a hit he suffered while pitching in Denver.
That’s why the Dodgers kept him out of Thursday’s game to facilitate his treatment and recovery.
When will Shohei Ohtani return to the starting lineup?
The team’s plan is for Ohtani to return to the starting lineup for the first game of the series against the San Diego Padres, where his offensive ability and role as a hitter would be critical. The player himself stated that his intention is to return to normal as soon as possible.
The medical management of Ohtani‘s return has been cautious, to say the least.
Manager Dave Roberts has said he is confident in the player’s recovery, although the final assessment will be made after 48 hours and the arrival in San Diego.
In addition, some reports mention the possibility of giving him a planned rest day as part of the reintegration plan, even before traveling, due to the accumulated physical effort.
It should be noted that Ohtani‘s performance has been far from what is expected of an MVP candidate, allowing five runs in just four innings, so this break is good for the Japanese pitcher to regain the level that led him to be considered the best in Major League Baseball.
The Dodgers and their need for rotation alternatives
Ohtani’s return to the mound is key for the Dodgers, especially considering the number of injuries in their rotation.
In the best-case scenario, Ohtani is expected to play a limited role as a starter, alternating his work on the mound with his outstanding role as a designated hitter, taking advantage of his status as a two-way player. This maximizes his effectiveness without overloading his arm.
In addition, the team has an emerging alternative: Roki Sasaki, who has resumed his rehabilitation work at Triple-A Oklahoma City, after a shoulder injury.
Sasaki has had an inconsistent performance, marked by injuries, but he could be in a position to join the rotation in the coming days if he maintains his progress and is cleared to return to the top level.
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