MLB's Ohtani Substituted After Knee Pain Following 13th Home Run

Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese star playing in Major League Baseball (MLB), was substituted during a game due to knee pain.

Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers was replaced by pinch hitter Santiago Espinal in the top of the 7th inning with one out and runners on first and second base during an away game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 12 (KST).

Ohtani, who started as the leadoff designated hitter, showed a sharp offensive performance, including a solo home run in the top of the 3rd inning, finishing with 2 hits in 2 at-bats and 2 walks, but he left the game before it concluded.

The Dodgers announced that Ohtani was substituted due to inflammation in his left knee.

Ohtani, known as a "two-way" player, has recorded a .305 batting average, 13 home runs, and 40 RBIs as a hitter this season.

As a pitcher, he has made 11 starts, posting a 6-2 record with a 1.06 ERA.

If Ohtani's injury keeps him sidelined for an extended period, the Dodgers are expected to face a significant blow on both the pitching and hitting fronts.

(Photo: Getty Images)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.