What happened: Dave Roberts said Shohei Ohtani will throw either a bullpen or live batting-practice session Thursday. It is the latest step for Ohtani, whose pitching return remained on hold July 31.

Why it matters: A return would restore his two-way role while giving Los Angeles time to build his workload before the regular season ends. Roberts has outlined a gradual ramp of one to three innings.

What to watch: His response to Thursday's throwing work will determine whether Sunday remains in play.