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Dodgers Say Ohtani Won’t Pitch Again, Focuses on Hitting

9/9/2026

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Summary

Ohtani Focuses on Hitting

Los Angeles Dodgers say Shohei Ohtani will not pitch again and will concentrate on hitting.
Dylan Cease entered his sixth consecutive 200-plus strikeout season, eyeing the 2026 MLB strikeout lead.
Kenley Jansen is six saves away from the 500-save club, the third-highest MLB total.
San Diego Padres earned 12 power-ranking votes, citing an offensive surge and closer Mason Miller.

Summary

Judge Returns

Analysts say Yankees’ postseason hopes depend on Aaron Judge’s return and sweeping the Rays.
Houston leads the head-to-head against the Rangers 9-4, giving the Astros an edge in the AL West race.
Experts favor Toronto to claim the final AL wild-card spot because of its strong stretch performance.
The labor-day stretch run leaves division titles undecided, prompting speculation about October clinches.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 the Yankees, guided by manager Joe Torre and the “Core Four,” posted a franchise-record 114–48 season and captured their 24th World Series title. That dominance of pitching and timely hitting guides today’s clubs: the Dodgers rely on Shohei Ohtani’s power while Kenley Jansen pursues a save milestone, and the Yankees need Aaron Judge healthy for a postseason run.

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Ohtani Focuses on Hitting

Los Angeles Dodgers say Shohei Ohtani will not pitch again and will concentrate on hitting.
Dylan Cease entered his sixth consecutive 200-plus strikeout season, eyeing the 2026 MLB strikeout lead.
Kenley Jansen is six saves away from the 500-save club, the third-highest MLB total.
San Diego Padres earned 12 power-ranking votes, citing an offensive surge and closer Mason Miller.

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