Shohei Ohtani expected to return from IL. What does that mean for Dodgers?
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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that designated hitter Shohei Ohtani will be activated from the 15-day injured list ahead of Wednesday's game against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium. Ohtani was previously sidelined due to lingering left knee soreness and right biceps inflammation, retroactive to September 8. Roberts confirmed that Ohtani will immediately return to the starting lineup, provided no unexpected setbacks occur during pre-game workouts. With five regular-season games remaining, Ohtani aims to regain his timing before the postseason. Roberts noted that Ohtani's physical condition has improved significantly from a rating of five to an estimated eight or nine out of ten. Ohtani will play exclusively as a designated hitter and will not pitch for the remainder of the season. The Dodgers currently hold a strong position in the National League standings as they prepare for the playoffs.
More context
Timeline
- On September 8 2026 Shohei Ohtani placed on 15-day injured list due to left knee soreness and right biceps inflammation.
- On September 22 2026 Manager Dave Roberts announces Ohtani's upcoming activation from the injured list.
- On September 23 2026 Shohei Ohtani scheduled to return to the starting lineup against the San Diego Padres.
- On September 28 2026 Final game of the regular season for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
- On October 1 2026 Start of the MLB postseason campaign.
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: Boosts Los Angeles Dodgers lineup and playoff positioning in the National League. Possible long-term US impact: Strengthens Dodgers' championship contention and roster stability heading into the postseason. Most affected groups: Los Angeles Dodgers fans, MLB bettors, and National League playoff contenders. Reader priority: High interest for baseball fans tracking star player health and postseason readiness.
Coverage notes
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Primary report
Announcement of Shohei Ohtani's return from the injured list by manager Dave Roberts
Sources
- Los Angeles Times
- The New York Times
- The Washington Post
- Sports Illustrated
- ESPN
- MLB.com
- Fox Sports
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- The Athletic
- Orange County Register
- Associated Press
- Reuters
- Yahoo Sports
- Bleacher Report
- USA Today
- NBC Sports
- Sporting News
- Baseball America
- FanGraphs
- Baseball Prospectus
- Dodger Blue
- True Blue LA
- San Diego Union-Tribune
- Los Angeles Daily News
- Sportsnet
- TSN
- Barstool Sports
- The Ringer
- Associated Press Baseball
- The Wall Street Journal
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