Shohei Ohtani once again set off alarm bells in Los Angeles after leaving his seventh start as a pitcher in the 2025 season
During the game against the Cincinnati Reds, the Japanese player was pulled from the mound in the fourth inning after throwing six consecutive balls, including two wild pitches
His departure was accompanied by the Los Angeles Dodgers medical staff, which immediately raised concerns among fans and the media.
Until that point, Ohtani had pitched three full innings, allowing one run, five hits, two walks and four strikeouts. He made a total of 51 pitches before being replaced with runners on first and third with no outs.
What did Ohtani say after the game?
After the game, Ohtani admitted that he had not felt well physically in recent days. Although no structural injury has been confirmed, his statements have raised concerns about his physical condition and his continuity as a pitcher.
“I haven’t been feeling very well physically these last few days,” the player said, without offering further details. This statement has been interpreted as a sign of accumulated fatigue, especially considering his dual role as a hitter and pitcher, and his recent return from Tommy John surgery.
The context of his return to the mound
Ohtani, 31, returned to pitching in June 2025 after more than a year out following ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. This was his seventh start since his return, and although he has shown flashes of his talent, he has yet to register a win as a pitcher this season.
His $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers makes him one of the most important figures in baseball today. That’s why any sign of physical discomfort generates a great impact both sportingly and in the media.
What is known so far about his physical condition
So far, the Dodgers have not issued an official medical report. Ohtani’s departure was initially attributed to cramps or muscle soreness, but a deeper evaluation has not been ruled out in the coming days.
The team’s coaching staff has been cautious with his use as a pitcher, allowing him spaced starts and monitoring his workload. However, this new situation could force a rethink of his role for the remainder of the season.
Impact on the team and the season
The Dodgers lead the National League West with a solid 63-45 record. Ohtani has been key on offense, hitting .272 with 38 home runs, 73 RBIs and 13 stolen bases. His value as a hitter remains high, but his role as a pitcher is what makes him a truly unique player.
The possible loss of Ohtani as a pitcher would be a blow to the team’s postseason aspirations. His versatility has been a strategic advantage, and his absence from the rotation could force the Dodgers to seek reinforcements before the trade deadline.
Uncertainty surrounds Ohtani’s future
The situation of Shohei Ohtani remains uncertain. Although his departure was precautionary, his own words and the context of his medical history raise doubts about his continuity as a pitcher in 2025. The next few days will be key to knowing the real extent of his discomfort and the team’s plan to manage his recovery.
Meanwhile, fans and the baseball world will be watching every update, hoping that the Japanese phenomenon can continue to shine on both sides of the diamond.
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