Dave Roberts reveals when Shohei Ohtani could finally return to Dodgers lineup

The Los Angeles Dodgers could soon have Shohei Ohtani back in their lineup after the superstar missed his fourth consecutive game Sunday night.

Ohtani remained sidelined because of physical issues that have included discomfort in his right biceps and left knee. While any injury involving the four-time MVP creates concern, Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts has offered optimism about his progress.

The Dodgers have understandably taken a cautious approach with one of baseball’s most valuable players, especially considering what Ohtani has accomplished this season.

Ohtani is batting .279 with 30 home runs, 80 RBIs and 11 stolen bases across 499 at-bats. He also owns a .906 OPS, once again giving Los Angeles elite production near the top of its lineup.

His impact hasn’t been limited to the batter’s box.

On the mound, Ohtani has been even more impressive. The right-hander is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA through 14 starts. He has recorded 95 strikeouts over 85⅔ innings while posting a 0.95 WHIP.

Dodgers aren’t taking any chances with Ohtani

Those numbers illustrate exactly why Los Angeles has little reason to rush him back.

Few players in baseball can influence a championship race the way Ohtani can. Losing his power in the lineup is difficult enough, but his ability to perform as a frontline starting pitcher makes keeping him healthy even more important.

His recent offensive struggles also suggest some time away could be beneficial. Ohtani has gone just 2-for-23 with 11 strikeouts over his last six games, and his most recent home run came Aug. 18.

Los Angeles now faces an important decision as it manages Ohtani heading toward the postseason.

The Dodgers need their superstar back, but they need a healthy version of him even more.

With 30 home runs at the plate and a sub-2.00 ERA on the mound, Ohtani has once again produced a season few players in baseball history could duplicate.

For Los Angeles, the priority isn’t getting him back for one September game.

It’s making sure Ohtani is ready when the games matter most in October.

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