Dodgers’ Trade-Deadline Outlook Hangs on Ohtani’s Knee

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that star pitcher-designated hitter Shohei Ohtani checked in with the training staff on the night after a 4–2 win over Seattle and was sidelined for Thursday’s game to rest a left-knee injury that has kept him from pitching since July 3. The injury comes as the club approaches the trade deadline, raising questions about roster moves and the team’s chances of a third straight World Series title.

New York Times

Roberts said the decision to sit Ohtani rested on communication with the trainer, noting, “Nothing should be off the table, and nothing is set in stone,” — Dave Roberts, manager Roberts added that “nothing should be off the table, and nothing is set in stone.” Ohtani himself acknowledged the lingering issue, stating, “It’s really something that I have to just deal with over the course of the season,” — Shohei Ohtani He emphasized that managing the discomfort President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman warned that protecting the knee is essential to avoid mechanical changes that could affect Ohtani’s arm, and he reiterated the club’s willingness to pursue star-level talent, saying, “I think our mindset is always, and we’ve talked about this, there just aren’t that many star-level players in the game,” — Andrew Friedman

New York Times

Despite uncertainty around Ohtani, the Dodgers remain active in the market. Team sources say the club is a frontrunner to acquire Tarik Skubal, the Tigers’ 2025 AL Cy Young winner, offering a strong prospect package that includes outfielder Zyhir Hope (Double-A .289 average, 21 homers) and pitcher Mike Sirota. The organization is also exploring outfield depth, with possible moves involving 21-year-old Ryan Ward (Triple-A) and scouting right-hander Clay Holmes, who posted a 2.39 ERA in nine Mets starts before a fibula fracture. Additional discussions involve left-hander Eric Lauer, who recently threw six innings of one-hit ball, and right-hander Alex Call, linked to interest from the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies.

New York Times

The Dodgers’ ability to keep Ohtani healthy and supplement the rotation could determine whether they can repeat as champions—a feat achieved by only four teams in MLB history. Even if Ohtani returns, the club’s depth and flexibility at the deadline will influence postseason pitching staff construction, as the organization traditionally assembles a 14-arm roster for the playoffs rather than focusing solely on regular-season roles. The outcome of these negotiations will shape Los Angeles’ championship trajectory as October approaches.

New York Times