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Dodgers fans received a major boost Wednesday when Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles lineup after a minimum-length stay on the 15-day injured list. However, the superstar’s comeback included a notable change: Ohtani was placed in the No. 2 spot rather than his familiar leadoff position.
The Dodgers activated Ohtani before their game against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium. Mookie Betts moved into the leadoff role, while Ohtani was scheduled to bat second against Padres left-hander Robbie Ray.
Dodgers Welcome Back Ohtani for Critical Final Games
Ohtani had not played since Sept. 7, when lingering issues involving his right biceps and left knee worsened. The Dodgers decided the two-way star needed an extended period of rest to recover before the postseason.
He appeared in only three games for Los Angeles during September and missed 17 of the club’s last 18 contests. Despite his absence, the Dodgers continued to play strong baseball, losing just three games during that stretch through Tuesday.
Manager Dave Roberts said the club is not expecting Ohtani to immediately perform at peak form. Instead, the priority is getting him back into game action and allowing him to rebuild his timing before October arrives.
“For me, it’s just see the baseball, just take good at-bats,” Roberts said. “I’m not expecting too much. It’s been a while since he’s played, but it’s just good to get him in there.”
Why Ohtani Is Batting Second
The lineup adjustment is connected to the matchup with Ray, a left-handed starter. Roberts explained that Betts could lead off against left-handers, while Ohtani may return to the top spot when Los Angeles faces a right-handed pitcher.
The strategy gives the Dodgers additional protection throughout the heart of their batting order. With Betts, Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Will Smith positioned near the top, opposing pitchers face a difficult series of at-bats before reaching the middle of the lineup.
“I think it just makes it tougher to navigate versus left,” Roberts said, describing the value of placing Betts ahead of the other stars. He added that the order could flip depending on the pitcher and matchup.
- Mookie Betts led off against the left-handed Robbie Ray.
- Shohei Ohtani returned in the No. 2 spot.
- Ohtani is expected to bat leadoff against right-handed starters.
- The Dodgers have five regular-season games remaining.
Ohtani Returns as a Hitter, Not a Pitcher
For now, Ohtani’s comeback will be limited to his offensive responsibilities. His attempt to resume pitching in August coincided with increased discomfort in his biceps and knee, injuries he had been managing since at least June.
Before landing on the injured list, Ohtani had produced a .902 OPS and a team-leading 30 home runs. Still, his recent form had been concerning. Across his previous 24 games, he hit .198, going 19-for-96 with 34 strikeouts.
The Dodgers hope rest has helped him regain strength and consistency. While Ohtani was sidelined, he did not face live pitching. Instead, he took coach batting practice and worked against the Trajekt machine, which simulates major league pitchers.
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said Ohtani reported feeling as good as he had earlier in the season. Friedman also stressed that the organization must monitor how Ohtani responds to the intensity and workload of real games.
“It’s one thing to feel that way for any player coming back from the IL,” Friedman said. “As they are coming back, it’s important for them to feel that way. And when you’re coming back, now the question is, as you start to load on real games and that intensity and that workload, it’s making sure that what we’ve done keeps guys in position to be at their best.”
What Ohtani’s Return Means for the Postseason
The Dodgers expect Ohtani to play in all five remaining regular-season games, giving him a chance to recover missed at-bats before the playoffs begin. He may not return at 100 percent, but Roberts described him as considerably better than he was when he went on the injured list.
That distinction could be crucial. Los Angeles has postseason ambitions, and Ohtani remains one of the club’s most dangerous offensive weapons. Even a productive version of the star could transform the Dodgers’ lineup and create difficult decisions for opposing pitching staffs.
The team’s immediate goal is to keep Ohtani healthy while gradually restoring his rhythm. With October approaching quickly, every plate appearance will matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Shohei Ohtani return to the Dodgers lineup?
Ohtani returned Wednesday for the Dodgers’ game against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium after being activated from the 15-day injured list.
Why was Ohtani batting second?
He batted second because the Padres started left-hander Robbie Ray. Mookie Betts led off, and manager Dave Roberts indicated the order could change against right-handed pitchers.
Will Ohtani pitch for the Dodgers this season?
Ohtani is returning only as a hitter at this stage. His pitching ramp-up was paused after his biceps and knee problems worsened.
How many home runs had Ohtani hit before his injury?
Ohtani had hit 30 home runs and posted a .902 OPS before going on the injured list.
How many games remain in the Dodgers’ regular season?
The Dodgers have five regular-season games remaining, and Ohtani is expected to participate in all of them if his health allows.
