What happened: Shohei Ohtani threw 30 pitches across six simulated plate appearances Saturday, his first work against hitters since left knee soreness interrupted his pitching schedule. Dave Roberts said Ohtani would be pitching within days if the decision rested with him, though the club is preserving a gradual buildup.
Why it matters: Ohtani has continued as the designated hitter while the Dodgers manage his pitching workload. A September return would leave only the final weeks of the season to prepare him for October.
By the numbers: Ohtani is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85 2/3 innings across 14 starts this season.
What to watch: His recovery between sessions will shape whether the Dodgers target an early-September start. Initial outings could be shortened while he builds volume.