Shohei Ohtani is feeling better physically as the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for their National League Division Series opener Saturday. The two-way star is using the club’s five-day playoff break to sharpen his swing after returning from the injured list.
Ohtani missed time with right biceps and left knee issues before returning to the Dodgers’ lineup for the final five games of the regular season. He went 5-for-21 with eight strikeouts during that stretch, but the Dodgers believe the additional recovery time can help him enter October in better form.
Dave Roberts said he remains encouraged by Shohei Ohtani’s health. He also added that he’d like Ohtani to take “five to seven” ABs off live pitching this week.
Ohtani’s return is particularly important for a Dodgers lineup that finished the regular season with a 100-62 record. Los Angeles won the NL West and earned a first-round bye, giving Ohtani several days to recover and get more comfortable at the plate before facing postseason pitching.
The final five games showed why the Dodgers wanted to give Ohtani additional time. He collected five hits in 21 at-bats, including an extra-base hit, while also drawing a walk.
His overall season numbers remained strong despite the late injury interruption, with a .275 batting average, .377 on-base percentage and .512 slugging percentage entering the postseason.
William Liang-Imagn Images
Ohtani’s workload will be focused on hitting for the postseason. MLB reported earlier this month that he was not expected to pitch again in 2026, making his offensive preparation the priority as the Dodgers begin their title defense.
The Dodgers will open the NLDS at Dodger Stadium on Saturday against either the Atlanta Braves or Philadelphia Phillies.
For now, the biggest takeaway is Ohtani’s health. If the additional preparation allows him to regain his timing, Los Angeles could have its superstar entering October in much better condition than he was at the end of the regular season.
ALSO SEE: MLB Playoff Betting: Best Wild Card Round Predictions for Wednesday, Sept. 30
