Dodgers hopeful Ohtani could return before season end after first tee swings
Shohei Ohtani took his first batting practice swings since being placed on the injured list, and manager Dave Roberts said the session was positive as the player becomes eligible to return with five games remaining.
Shohei Ohtani took his first batting practice swings on Tuesday in Los Angeles, marking his initial activity since being placed on the 15-day injured list on Sept. 8 for right biceps inflammation. The Dodgers, who beat the Cincinnati Reds 4-0, are monitoring his progress as he becomes eligible to return on Sept. 23, with five regular-season games left.
Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani "hit off the tee and felt good, too" and described the session as a positive step, adding that the team will continue a "consistent build-up" toward a possible return. Ohtani, a two-way player, had previously struggled with a knee injury that ended his pitching in early July and later revealed the biceps issue.
The Dodgers improved to 92-59 with the win, aided by home runs from Teoscar Hernández and Alex Freeland, and have already secured a playoff berth while leading the National League West. Although Ohtani is not expected to pitch again this season, his potential return could provide a boost before the postseason.