Dodgers Consider Resting Shohei Ohtani After Four-Strikeout Performance
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is considering giving Shohei Ohtani a day off after the star player endured a difficult night at the plate against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Ohtani went hitless in four at-bats and struck out four times during the Dodgers’ 8-6, 10-inning loss to the Cardinals on Wednesday.
Roberts said he plans to speak with the team’s training staff and Ohtani on Thursday to assess the player’s physical condition before deciding whether he needs a break from the lineup.
Roberts Concerned About Ohtani’s Condition
Roberts said Ohtani did not appear to be performing at his usual physical level during the game.
“You could see the swing wasn’t the swing that we’re used to seeing,” Roberts said after the defeat. He added that Ohtani was not currently performing at an optimal level.
Despite the concerns, Roberts said he did not believe the situation required Ohtani to be placed on the injured list.
The manager said the team would first evaluate how Ohtani is feeling before making a decision about his availability.
Ohtani Has Been Dealing With Injuries
The 2026 season has presented physical challenges for Ohtani, who has been balancing his responsibilities as both a hitter and pitcher.
He has not pitched in a game since July 3 while dealing with ongoing discomfort in his left knee and right biceps.
Those issues could also be affecting his performance at the plate. Ohtani is currently batting .279 and recorded four consecutive strikeouts for the first time this season in Wednesday’s game.
Dodgers Could Give Star a Break
Roberts acknowledged that Ohtani wants to remain in the lineup whenever he is able to play.
The manager said he respects the player’s desire to continue competing but suggested that playing while visibly struggling physically may not benefit either Ohtani or the team.
Roberts plans to determine whether a short rest could help Ohtani recover and return to his normal form.
Earlier on Wednesday, Roberts had said he had not received any indication that Ohtani was dealing with a physical problem.
The Dodgers will now monitor his condition before deciding whether he will be included in the lineup for their next game.
