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Dodgers Aim for Ohtani September Pitching Debut

8/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Dodgers expect Shohei Ohtani to pitch again in September, after his last outing on July 3.
He received an Orthovisc injection for left-knee inflammation and right-biceps tightness at the All-Star break.
He continues as the everyday DH, hitting .292 with 26 homers and 70 RBIs.
Dave Roberts said any innings will be a bonus and Ohtani could serve as a one-to-three-inning opener.

History

Historical Context

In 1973 the American League, after an 8-4 owners’ vote and Commissioner Bowie Kuhn’s approval, adopted the designated hitter, with Ron Blomberg becoming the first DH on April 6. The rule, originally a three-year trial to boost offense, became permanent and was made universal in 2022, enabling Shohei Ohtani to serve as the Los Angeles Dodgers’ everyday DH in 2024 while still pitching, echoing the league’s earlier experiment.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Dodgers expect Shohei Ohtani to pitch again in September, after his last outing on July 3.
He received an Orthovisc injection for left-knee inflammation and right-biceps tightness at the All-Star break.
He continues as the everyday DH, hitting .292 with 26 homers and 70 RBIs.
Dave Roberts said any innings will be a bonus and Ohtani could serve as a one-to-three-inning opener.

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