Ohtani Unlikely to Pitch Again in 2026 as Knee, Biceps Issues Stall Dodgers Return
Updated
Updated · MLB Trade Rumors · Sep 7
Ohtani Unlikely to Pitch Again in 2026 as Knee, Biceps Issues Stall Dodgers Return
3 articles · Updated · MLB Trade Rumors · Sep 7
Summary
Dave Roberts indicated Shohei Ohtani is effectively done pitching for the rest of 2026, saying the calendar and Ohtani’s limited recent throwing make a return in either the regular season or playoffs unrealistic.
An August 28 bullpen session was supposed to be the final step before a one-inning opener against Detroit, but Ohtani cut it short with right knee discomfort and a sore right biceps.
Ohtani has not thrown since that session and missed the Dodgers’ last four games entirely, though Roberts said he could return to his regular DH role Monday after feeling well following Saturday batting practice.
His two-way status complicated any injured-list move because pitchers require a 15-day IL stint, and Los Angeles appears more focused on restoring his bat after a .200/.303/.400 stretch over his last 109 plate appearances.
With the postseason near, the Dodgers can absorb the loss on the mound because a projected front four of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tarik Skubal, Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow already gives them a deep October rotation.