Full Breakdown
Shohei Ohtani Set to Return as Dodgers Gear Up for Postseason
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Los Angeles Dodgers plan to activate two-way star Shohei Ohtani from the 15-day injured list on Wednesday, September 23. Ohtani has been on the IL since early September because of right-biceps inflammation and lingering left-knee soreness. Manager Dave Roberts said the player is “considerably” better and will be eligible for the remaining five regular-season games before the postseason begins.
Background & Context
Ohtani’s IL stint began with a retroactive start date earlier in the month after the team placed him on the list for the injuries. The Dodgers clinched their 13th NL West title while he was sidelined and have already reinstated center fielder Andy Pages and right-hander Roki Sasaki. The club hopes Ohtani’s return will bolster a lineup that has been “clicking” in his absence.
Data & Statistics
- Season-to-date line-up numbers: .277/.380/.522, .902 OPS, 30 HR, 80 RBI, 89 runs, 11 SB.
- In his last 13 games before the IL, Ohtani posted a .122/.295/.184 line with 0 HR and 21 strikeouts.
- Mookie Betts, now leadoff, is hitting .373/.468/.746 in September.
- Rookie Josue De Paula is batting .323/.500/.581 in his first 11 games, the best on-base percentage for a Dodger rookie since Corey Seager in 2015.
Official Statements & Responses
- Roberts described Ohtani’s health as “considerably better,” rating it an eight or nine on a ten-point scale.
- He indicated Ohtani will likely resume his usual leadoff role against right-handed pitchers but left the final decision open, noting the need to consider “the entire lineup structure.”
- Regarding the postseason, Roberts said any pitcher on the 12- or 13-man roster is “in the trust tree,” underscoring bullpen depth.
- The organization confirmed Ohtani will be limited to designated-hitter duties for the remainder of the season, ruling him out of pitching.
Timeline
- Early September – Ohtani placed on the 15-day IL (retroactive date earlier in the month).
- September 22, 2026 – Dodgers defeat the San Diego Padres 7-0; Roberts announces Ohtani’s expected activation.
- September 23, 2026 (scheduled) – Ohtani slated to be activated and added to the lineup.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact IL start date, with some outlets citing one day and the Dodgers’ transaction log noting another. No source provides a definitive medical assessment beyond Roberts’s qualitative rating, leaving the precise level of Ohtani’s readiness uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I would say if he was a five, he's probably an eight or a nine right now,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “Unless I hear otherwise, he'll be in the lineup tomorrow,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “Certainly versus right-handed pitching [Ohtani] will be there,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “Absolutely. He’ll need those live at-bats,” — Dave Roberts, manager
- “Everything I’ve heard, it’s been a really productive last three to four to five days. He’s in a good spot,” — Dave Roberts, manager
Why It Matters
Ohtani’s return could restore the Dodgers’ offensive firepower at a critical juncture, giving the team a more balanced attack heading into a potential first-round bye. His presence also influences lineup construction, with Roberts weighing whether to keep Mookie Betts in the leadoff spot against left-handed pitchers. The decision will affect the role of bench players such as Josue De Paula and the utilization of relievers like Roki Sasaki in high-leverage postseason situations.