Shohei Ohtani’s Knee Clears Final Hurdle — Dodgers Ready to Let Him Pitch Wednesday

LOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani is one step closer to doing what only he can do: pitch and hit in the same game. After missing time last week due to knee inflammation, the two-way superstar threw a bullpen session Tuesday afternoon at Dodger Stadium, and the early signs are promising.

Manager Dave Roberts told reporters that Ohtani came out of the throwing session feeling good, putting him on track to start Wednesday afternoon’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays. According to California Press reporter Jack Harris, the bullpen was the final checkpoint before the team gives him the green light to take the mound.

“Shohei Ohtani is about to throw a bullpen session. A final check for his knee before his scheduled start tomorrow,” Harris wrote. “Dave Roberts said they’ll see how he comes out of it, but ‘feels good’ that Ohtani will be good to go on the mound tomorrow afternoon. TBD if he’ll play both ways.”

The Two-Way Question

Whether Ohtani will bat as well as pitch Wednesday remains undecided. Roberts said he would monitor Ohtani closely before, during, and after Tuesday’s throwing session before making a call.

“Yeah, I don’t know,” Roberts told the media. “I think today, just kind of seeing how he comes out of today, you know, I think the more information is better, and information as in how he’s feeling. So, yeah, seeing today, seeing tonight, and then I can make a decision for tomorrow.”

The caution is understandable. Ohtani missed a game and part of another last week after his knee flared up. For a player who both pitches elite innings and serves as the Dodgers’ most dangerous bat, any physical issue is magnified.

Why It Matters for the Dodgers

Ohtani’s bat has been scorching over the past few weeks, making the decision even more complicated. If he’s healthy enough to hit, it’s hard to imagine anyone else being a better option in the designated hitter spot. The Dodgers need every edge they can get as they chase another postseason run, and Ohtani’s dual role is the ultimate weapon.

Roberts also addressed how the team plans to manage other players’ positions, saying, “I just kind of see Tommy at second, at third, in left; it’s sort of a case-by-case.”

For now, all eyes are on Wednesday’s start. If Ohtani gets through that without issue, the Dodgers can exhale. If not, the conversation shifts back to load management and how to keep their most valuable asset on the field — in one role or both.