Shohei Ohtani Out: Dodgers Prioritize October Readiness

Shohei Ohtani has been sidelined for his fourth consecutive game as of September 7, 2026, due to ongoing physical issues. The star athlete has experienced discomfort in his right biceps and left knee, prompting the Los Angeles Dodgers to adopt a cautious approach. Ohtani's performance this season has been exceptional, with a .279 batting average, 30 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases. He has also excelled as a pitcher, holding an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA over 14 starts.

Despite his significant contributions, Ohtani has shown recent offensive struggles, going 2-for-23 with 11 strikeouts in his last six games. This downturn, coupled with his value as both a hitter and a frontline pitcher, underscores the Dodgers' decision to manage his return carefully. The team's primary objective is to ensure Ohtani is fully healthy and ready for the intensity of the October postseason, prioritizing his long-term readiness over immediate September appearances.