Shohei Ohtani Returns to Dodgers Lineup Ahead of Postseason

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Dodgers lineup on Wednesday against San Diego following a 13-game absence caused by right biceps discomfort.

Shohei Ohtani played his third consecutive game Friday night as the Los Angeles Dodgers opened a season-ending series in San Francisco. The four-time MVP recently returned from a 13-game stint on the injured list caused by right biceps discomfort. Entering Friday's contest, Ohtani held a .278 batting average with 30 home runs and 81 RBIs for the season.

Manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani will serve as the leadoff hitter for the defending World Series champions during the playoffs. While Ohtani posted an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA across 14 starts on the mound this year, Roberts stated the two-way star will not pitch again this season due to his injuries. Consequently, he will not replicate his performance from the previous NL Championship Series, where he threw six scoreless innings and recorded three home runs in a single game.

To prepare for the postseason, the Dodgers intend for Ohtani to finish the regular season with 20 to 23 total at-bats over five games. The team will also have a five-day break during the wild-card rounds, allowing Ohtani to participate in simulated at-bats. Roberts noted he will rely on communication between the training staff and Ohtani to manage the player's physical workload rather than conducting daily check-ins.