MLBSep 26
Dodgers prioritize Ohtani’s health as postseason approaches
Dave Roberts is encouraged by Shohei Ohtani’s return and trusts the Dodgers star to balance preparation with rest before the playoffs.
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Health comes before October production
The Dodgers’ postseason priority for Shohei Ohtani is straightforward: keep him healthy and available atop the lineup. Manager Dave Roberts is less concerned with extraordinary October production than with having his leadoff hitter strong enough to deliver quality at-bats following his latest injury absence. Ohtani played his third straight game Friday as Los Angeles opened its season-ending series in San Francisco. He returned Wednesday against San Diego after missing 13 games while on the injured list with right biceps discomfort. Entering Friday, he was batting.278 with 30 home runs and 81 RBIs. Roberts has been encouraged by Ohtani’s swings and approach since his return. His preferred finish to the regular season would give Ohtani five consecutive games and 20 to 23 at-bats before postseason play.
Rest and preparation on deck
The defending World Series champions will have five days off during the wild-card rounds while waiting for their opening playoff opponent. That break gives Ohtani room to rest while staying sharp through baseball activities, including simulated at-bats. Roberts intends to keep an eye on the workload without holding daily discussions about Ohtani’s condition. He will check in occasionally, leaving much of the ongoing communication to Ohtani and the training staff. Ohtani’s playoff contribution will come at the plate rather than on the mound. Injuries have ended his pitching season after he went 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA across 14 starts. For Roberts, a healthy hitter who accepts what opposing pitchers offer—including opportunities to reach base ahead of Mookie Betts—is central to the Dodgers’ offensive plans.
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