Shohei Ohtani is officially back, set to be activated today, Wednesday, September 23rd, and returning immediately to the Dodgers’ starting lineup. But don’t pop the champagne just yet: while the Japanese superstar is slotted back into the leadoff spot, manager Dave Roberts is already weighing whether to split that critical role with Mookie Betts. Ohtani was slumping badly as the leadoff hitter before his injury, while Betts has been absolutely raking, putting up one of the best hitting months on the team. It sounds like Ohtani’s going to have to prove he can hit right out of the gate if he wants to keep that top spot all to himself.
The Injury Saga and His Time Off
So, what even happened that put Ohtani on the shelf for a few weeks? His swing and plate approach had looked completely off for a handful of games, and the Dodgers saw enough red flags to sit him down. The issues, including a left knee injury and right bicep discomfort, all stemmed from his pitching work. Initially, they tried to bench him without making an IL move, but when he came back for a game and still looked compromised, it was clear: a trip to the 15-day injured list was necessary.
While on the IL, Ohtani didn’t just chill. He spent the first half of his stint resting, which he said would help most. Then, more recently, he started swinging the bat again, which is huge. He also opted to stay in Los Angeles to work out instead of traveling with the team for their recent road series. All that work seems to have paid off, because he has progressed enough to get activated today.
What’s at Stake for the Superstar?
This isn’t just a regular return to the lineup, especially with the postseason on the horizon. These next few games are absolutely massive for Ohtani. They’re going to show everyone, including Roberts, exactly where his bat is and what he can actually deliver at the plate after that layoff. It’s his chance to shake off the rust, find his rhythm, and prove that rest really was the answer. That theory about rest helping most? It’s about to be put to the ultimate test. The Dodgers need him firing on all cylinders, and Ohtani needs to lock down that leadoff role heading into October. He’s got everything to prove starting now.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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