Full Breakdown
Shohei Ohtani’s Shortened Bullpen Session Raises Questions About Sunday Start
8/29/2026, 8:49:17 PM
Bullpen Session and Return Uncertainty
Shohei Ohtani threw an abbreviated bullpen session at Comerica Park on Friday, delivering roughly 20 pitches. The length was well below the 30- to 35-pitch range typical for a pre-start warm-up. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the session “was short” and indicated that the team will decide after reviewing the effort whether Ohtani will pitch on Sunday or be delayed to Tuesday.
Background & Context
Ohtani has not taken the mound since July 3, when a left-knee injury forced him out of the rotation. After an injection and a brief setback on July 21, he resumed throwing in late July and completed a 30-pitch live-batting-practice session on a Saturday prior to the Detroit series. The Dodgers have used him exclusively as a designated hitter since his removal from the rotation.
Data & Statistics
- Pitching record: 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA in 85 2/3 innings (season to date).
- Strikeouts: 95.
- Typical between-starts bullpen: 30-35 pitches.
- Recent session: ~20 pitches.
- Batting average: reported as .285 and .288.
- Power: 30 home runs and 80 RBIs (season totals).
Official Statements & Responses
General manager Brandon Gomes emphasized ongoing communication with Ohtani, noting the uniqueness of his two-way role and its impact on roster planning.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I really don’t know what to make of it” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “I think right now we’re going to kind of stand pat, see how he comes in tomorrow,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “I do know he’s going to throw a bullpen on Friday in Detroit, and after that then we’ll know how the forthcoming days look,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “Sunday is a day, as is Tuesday,” — Dave Roberts, manager
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Ohtani’s current batting average: ESPN lists .285, while Heavy reports .288. No source provides a definitive timeline for a full-start return; the decision hinges on Friday’s bullpen performance and Ohtani’s knee status.
What’s Next
The Dodgers will assess Friday’s session and determine whether Ohtani pitches on Sunday, potentially for a single inning, or waits until Tuesday. Tyler Glasnow is slated to start on regular rest Sunday, with the possibility of shifting to the bullpen if Ohtani is cleared earlier. The outcome will shape the Dodgers’ rotation strategy heading into the final weeks of the regular season and the postseason.
