Shohei Ohtani back in Dodgers lineup, delivers two-run homer

Shohei Ohtani missed the previous game with a biceps injury and a back issue but returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup for the series against the San Diego Padres. The Dodgers, who have expanded their NL West lead to 14 games, placed Ohtani back in his usual leadoff spot.

In the third inning of the game, Ohtani hit a two-run home run to left field, giving the Dodgers a 2-1 lead. Across 309 at‑bats this season, he is batting .288 with 18 home runs, 50 RBI and an OPS+ of 156, positioning him as a strong contender for his fourth straight MVP award.