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Ohtani's Health Cleared for Dodgers' Postseason Run
3 Oct
Summary
- Shohei Ohtani is physically prepared for the postseason after recent injuries.
- Ohtani will focus exclusively on hitting, not pitching, in the current playoffs.
- The Dodgers are confident in Ohtani's health entering their NLDS matchup.
Shohei Ohtani is physically prepared for the Los Angeles Dodgers' upcoming National League Division Series, according to hitting coach Aaron Bates. This encouraging health update comes after Ohtani spent 15 days on the injured list due to right biceps discomfort and left knee issues. Although he returned for the final five regular-season games, hitting .238, the team prioritized his overall condition entering October.
Ohtani will not pitch during this postseason, having shut down his pitching workload earlier in the season to focus on offensive contributions. He anticipates concentrating on hitting through the 2026 season. Despite these limitations, his powerful presence in the lineup is expected to significantly impact opposing pitchers and contribute to the Dodgers' pursuit of a championship.
The Dodgers finished the regular season with a 100-62 record, winning the National League West. They are set to begin their NLDS against the Atlanta Braves at Dodger Stadium on Saturday. Ohtani stated he will continue to manage his arm and knee injuries, viewing them as something he must manage long-term.
