“Is Pitcher Ohtani Done for the Season?” Roberts Voices the Worst-Case Scenario

[Financial News] Shohei Ohtani’s two-way role with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which thrilled baseball fans around the world, may come to an end in 2026. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has officially raised the shocking possibility that Ohtani may not return to the mound for the rest of the season.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts met with local reporters on the 3rd, before the team’s home game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, in Major League Baseball (MLB). Asked whether Ohtani might be unable to pitch during the remainder of the regular season and the postseason, Roberts replied, “That’s one of the options,” leaving open the possibility that Ohtani could be done for the season as a pitcher.
Ohtani was dominant as a pitcher during the first half of this season. In 14 appearances, he logged 852⁄3 innings, going 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts. He effectively served as the ace of the Dodgers’ starting rotation.
However, persistent pain in his left knee has hindered him. He disappeared from game action on the mound after his outing against the San Diego Padres on July 4. Ohtani continued his rehabilitation while appearing only as a hitter, and on the 23rd of last month he completed a live pitching session with batters in the box. He was then scheduled to pitch one inning as an opener against the Detroit Tigers on the 31st.


But the appearance ultimately fell through because he had still not returned to full health. Ohtani has now stopped throwing altogether. With less than a month remaining in the regular season and the postseason approaching, there is far too little time to rebuild his game readiness and pitch count.
Roberts also made no attempt to hide his frustration. “Until Ohtani resumes throwing bullpen sessions, we don’t know what the next step will be regarding his return as a pitcher,” the manager said, suggesting that the wait could continue indefinitely.
Regarding the possibility of Ohtani playing in the outfield, which has been raised by some, Roberts drew a firm line, saying, “We’re not considering that at all right now.” In other words, if Ohtani’s return to the mound falls through, his postseason role will be limited exclusively to designated hitter.
The Dodgers had been waiting for “Pitcher Ohtani” to return as they pursued a complete championship run, even with the addition of Tarik Skubal and Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s strong performances. But as prolonged knee pain threatens to turn the worst-case scenario into reality, the Dodgers will be forced to significantly revise their postseason plans as they seek a third consecutive World Series title.

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