Dodgers' baseball operations chief says Ohtani's health remains uncertain ahead of playoffs
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said Shohei Ohtani feels better but is not yet at full strength, and the team will monitor his condition closely as they head into the postseason.
Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the team continues to check on Shohei Ohtani’s condition daily and weekly as he returns from a stint on the injured list. Ohtani, who was placed on the IL after a prolonged slump and injuries to his left knee and right arm, rejoined the roster on Wednesday for a postseason push.
"The most important thing is how much better he feels," Friedman told reporters after Ohtani went 1-for-4 in a loss to the San Diego Padres. "Now, it’s about continuing that as he takes game-intensity at-bats."
Friedman acknowledged that Ohtani is likely not back to 100 percent physically, but noted the player has said he feels comparable to earlier in the season. He added that the injuries have affected Ohtani’s performance and that the team will aim to give him as many at-bats as possible to regain rhythm.
"There’s no question [the injuries] affected him. I think the fact that he feels as good as he does right now is certainly encouraging. Now it’s about making sure that holds," Friedman said.
The executive did not assign blame for the season’s setbacks, citing Ohtani’s own willingness to play through discomfort. He suggested that the player, like some veterans, may downplay how he feels.
"He’s not always the best reporter of how he feels," Friedman said, adding that other players have similarly minimized issues to help the team.
Friedman said communication between the player and staff has been strong, though not always perfect, and that the Dodgers will continue daily check-ins as they approach the playoffs. He did not commit to Ohtani playing in all remaining regular-season games, indicating the decision will depend on his response to the recent return.