Dodgers' Ohtani Delays Pitching Return: "Body Not at 100%"

Superstar Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers has delayed his return to the mound.

Following the away game against the Detroit Tigers in the 2026 Major League Baseball (MLB) season held at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan on the 30th (KST), Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was asked about the starting pitcher for the following day. He responded, "Ohtani's physical condition is not at 100%," adding, "To be honest, it doesn't look like he will fully recover to 100% by the end of the season."

He continued, "Just as there are pitchers who show competitiveness even when their physical condition is not perfect, Ohtani will continue his recovery process," and announced, "Tyler Glasnow will start in the game on the 31st."

Ohtani, who plays as a two-way player, has posted stellar numbers this season with 8 wins, 2 losses, and a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts as a pitcher.

However, after pitching in a game against the San Diego Padres on the 4th of last month, he felt pain in his left knee. Due to slow recovery, he has not been able to take the mound for nearly two months.

Since then, he has been contributing to the team exclusively as a batter.

Ohtani recently completed live pitching sessions facing batters in the bullpen and was scheduled to pitch as an opener for about one inning in the game against Detroit on the 31st.

However, his knee has not recovered enough for live game action, leading the Dodgers to revise their original plan.

On this day, Ohtani started as the leadoff designated hitter and went 1-for-4, while the Dodgers lost 1-2.

(Photo: Getty Images)
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