Dodgers consider ending Ohtani's pitching season due to injury
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated that Shohei Ohtani could be shut down as a pitcher for the remainder of the season. The team is weighing that option as Ohtani deals with an injury. If it happens, he would not pitch again in 2026.
Shohei Ohtani’s unique dual role as both elite hitter and pitcher makes any arm-related setback a major strategic concern for the Dodgers. With the season’s stretch run approaching, manager Dave Roberts has publicly acknowledged that the team is actively considering shutting Ohtani down as a pitcher to protect his long-term health. Such a move would preserve his offensive contributions while sacrificing his rotation spot, a trade-off that underscores the delicate balance teams face when managing two-way stars. The decision, if finalized, would effectively end his pitching campaign for 2026, leaving the Dodgers to adjust their playoff pitching plans accordingly.
This story could affect Dodgers fans, fantasy baseball players, and the broader MLB audience, as Ohtani’s pitching appearances are a major draw. If he is shut down, the team’s postseason odds may shift, and fans could see fewer historic two-way performances. The decision may also influence how other clubs manage star players with similar workloads, potentially prompting more cautious injury protocols. However, the impact remains speculative, as the team’s final choice and its ripple effects are not yet known.