Ohtani nears Dodgers mound return after seven-week absence

He last pitched July 3 amid left-knee soreness.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 261 min read

RT @MLBNetwork: .@jonmorosi joins #MLBCentral with more on the potentially imminent pitching return of Shohei Ohtani ⬇️ Via @jonmorosi on X

What happened: Shohei Ohtani could start Sunday in Detroit if he responds well to Wednesday's throwing work. He faced live hitters Saturday, throwing 30 pitches across six simulated plate appearances.

Why it matters: Los Angeles entered Tuesday 80-51 and remains in contention for a first-round postseason bye. Adding another rotation option would give the Dodgers more flexibility during the stretch run.

By the numbers: Ohtani is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA through 14 starts and 85 2/3 innings this season.

What to watch: The Dodgers will assess Ohtani's response before setting their weekend rotation.

Sources

@MLBNetwork 2026-08-26T15:36:03.857628+00:00

CONVERSATION

Loading comments…

MLBInjuryLos Angeles DodgersShohei Ohtani

Follow MLB Intelligence

Real-time signals and analysis

@WireReportMLB

WR Pro

The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.

$9/month Free weekly newsletter →