Dodgers Postpone Shohei Ohtani’s Bullpen Session Amid Knee Concerns

Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound is still a work in progress, as the Los Angeles Dodgers have postponed his scheduled bullpen session due to a setback in his knee recovery. The two-way superstar, who is expected to pitch again in 2026, has been dealing with soreness and a minor knee injury that has hindered his performance on the field.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the situation, revealing that the delay was attributed to a “regression” in Ohtani’s knee after his earlier bullpen session earlier this week. “It’s not ideal,” Roberts acknowledged, but he remains optimistic about Ohtani’s eventual return, stating he fully expects the ace to take the mound again at some point this season.

Prior to the All-Star break, Roberts confirmed that Ohtani had not undergone a knee drainage procedure but had received a “lubricant injection” to alleviate discomfort. He emphasized that Ohtani’s return is not a day-to-day concern and that patience is key, as it will take time for the star to regain full strength. Ohtani last pitched on July 3, and while there is no set timetable for his return, the Dodgers are keeping a close eye on his progress.

This season, Ohtani has made 14 starts, showcasing his dominance with a remarkable 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts over 85.2 innings before his injury. Despite his current absence from the pitching rotation, Ohtani continues to contribute to the team as the primary designated hitter, boasting a solid .286 batting average, .392 on-base percentage, and .527 slugging percentage, alongside 22 home runs and 62 RBIs through 95 games.

The depth of the Dodgers’ roster has allowed them to maintain their winning momentum, currently holding a 66-38 record as of July 25, the best in baseball. While Ohtani’s presence on the mound would undoubtedly provide a boost, Los Angeles has been navigating the challenges effectively, keeping their playoff aspirations firmly in sight.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.