What happened: Shohei Ohtani confirmed through interpreter Will Ireton that he plans to pitch again for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2027. The two-way player has not pitched in a game since July 3 after receiving a knee injection during the All-Star break and experiencing setbacks in subsequent bullpen sessions.

Why it matters: The Los Angeles Dodgers do not require Ohtani in the starting rotation to contend in the National League West, making his health for the postseason lineup the central priority. Balancing his pitching workload against his offensive availability carries significant roster implications with seven years remaining on his contract.

What to watch: Ohtani declined to say whether his offseason preparation for 2027 will involve a medical procedure. Dodgers decision-makers will determine how to structure his mound workload ahead of spring training.