Dodgers weigh Ohtani’s knee status and explore trade options ahead of deadline

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Shohei Ohtani missed Thursday’s game against the Boston Red Sox after reporting increased soreness in his left knee, the same injury that has sidelined him from pitching since early July. The club’s training staff performed an MRI and administered an Orthovisc injection, which Roberts described as showing “marked” improvement, but the player remains uncertain about reaching full health for the remainder of the season.

Roberts emphasized that the decision to rest Ohtani was made after the player communicated his condition, adding, "I appreciate the communication. I can’t read minds, the training staff can’t read minds, so just for him to communicate that allows us to make a decision." He noted that Ohtani is not at 100 percent, but the team will continue to monitor his status.

Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the organization wants to avoid any knee-related changes that could affect Ohtani’s arm, and expressed confidence that the star will return to the mound later this season.

Meanwhile, trade talks remain active as the deadline approaches. The Dodgers are considered the leading suitors for Tigers right-hander Tarik Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young winner, and have identified several prospects—such as outfielder Zyhir Hope and pitcher Emmet Sheehan—as possible pieces in a deal. The club is also evaluating interest in outfielder Alex Call and left-hander Eric Lauer, while scouting Mets pitcher Clay Holmes as a potential addition to the rotation or bullpen.

Friedman said the team’s mindset is to engage in conversations whenever a star-level player becomes available, underscoring the Dodgers’ willingness to act in the market regardless of Ohtani’s health status.