Dodgers rest Shohei Ohtani for load management after brief return

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup on Monday after a four-game absence but was held out of Tuesday's roster as the team continues to monitor his left knee and right arm injuries. The two-way star went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk in the series opener against the Cincinnati Reds before being rested.

"He came out of yesterday well," manager Dave Roberts said, adding that the decision was driven by a desire to "build him up slowly" with the training staff. Roberts indicated Ohtani could be available off the bench in a "big spot" if needed on Tuesday, and expected him to resume his designated-hitter duties for the series finale on Wednesday. The manager emphasized that the goal is to have the player near full strength heading into the postseason, noting that occasional rest days are not detrimental. The Dodgers have not confirmed whether Ohtani will see further off days, but Roberts highlighted that the pitcher-hitter has been feeling good despite a recent slump of six hits in 49 at-bats over his last 13 games. He described the workload plan as flexible, saying the team can incorporate additional rest as the season progresses. Ohtani's health status remains uncertain, and the Dodgers will continue to assess his condition before each game.