# Ohtani Pitching Return Uncertain Amid Injury and Slump > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/debate-over-the-ohtani-twoway-rule-and-his-early-season-performance-with-the-dodgers > Updated: 2026-08-29T17:06:34.000Z. Sources: 251. Developments: 83. Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound remains uncertain as he continues to struggle with left knee inflammation and biceps discomfort. Following a bullpen session where he threw approximately 20 pitches, manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani is ‘not 100 percent’ and stated the team scrapped plans for him to pitch against the Detroit Tigers. This physical setback has coincided with a decline in offensive production, including a recent game where he went zero-for-five. As the Dodgers evaluate his status, discussions have intensified regarding whether the team should place Ohtani on the injured list to allow him to focus exclusively on hitting to preserve his health for the postseason. By early September, the Dodgers indicated they are seriously considering shutting Ohtani down as a pitcher for the remainder of the 2026 season. The organization is prioritizing his availability as a designated hitter for the postseason, noting that playing him in the outfield is not an option. Despite the potential end to his pitching season, Ohtani remains a significant offensive force, maintaining 30 home runs and 80 RBIs. ## Claims - Shohei Ohtani continues as the Dodgers’ designated hitter, batting .289 with 23 home runs and 65 RBIs in 103 games. (disputed by 14 sources) - Ohtani is batting .286 with 22 home runs and 61 RBIs. (disputed by 12 sources) - The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Colorado Rockies 11-5. (disputed by 5 sources) - Shohei Ohtani hit two home runs during the game. (disputed by 5 sources) - Ohtani recorded three hits and three RBIs in the game, which the Dodgers lost 7‑6 to the Seattle Mariners. (disputed by 3 sources) - Shohei Ohtani received an Orthovisc injection in his left knee during the All‑Star break. (corroborated by 20 sources) - Shohei Ohtani has not pitched since July 3. (corroborated by 19 sources) - Dave Roberts said the decision to rest Ohtani was based on his communication about knee soreness. (corroborated by 19 sources) - Shohei Ohtani also has a right biceps soreness. (corroborated by 18 sources) - MRI scans showed no structural damage to Shohei Ohtani’s left knee. (corroborated by 14 sources) - Shohei Ohtani was held out of the Dodgers lineup on Thursday because of left knee soreness. (corroborated by 14 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-08-29: Shohei Ohtani's pitching return delayed by injury and batting slump Shohei Ohtani's return to pitching is uncertain due to knee and biceps issues. The Dodgers are prioritizing his offensive health as he faces a recent batting slump. 16 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-pitching-return-uncertain-after-bullpen-session ### 2026-08-27: Los Angeles Dodgers defeat Detroit Tigers 2-1 The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Detroit Tigers 2-1, led by Freddie Freeman's decisive RBI and Tarik Skubal's strong six-inning return to his former home at Comerica Park. 20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hanshin-tigers-defeat-chunichi-dragons-to-avoid-series-sweep ### 2026-08-25: Los Angeles Dodgers bolster roster with Glasnow and Ohtani returns The Los Angeles Dodgers are seeing a boost in their roster with Tyler Glasnow returning to pitching and Shohei Ohtani nearing a return to the mound following injury management. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-bolster-roster-with-glasnow-and-ohtani-returns ### 2026-08-22: Shohei Ohtani nears pitching return for Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani is nearing a return to pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers after completing a 30-pitch live batting practice session, with a potential comeback as early as next week. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-advances-pitching-recovery-in-live-practice ### 2026-08-22: Shohei Ohtani may undergo left knee surgery after season Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani may undergo left knee surgery after the season to address ongoing injury issues while continuing to play as a designated hitter. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-may-undergo-left-knee-surgery-after-season ### 2026-08-18: Shohei Ohtani hits 30th home run as Dodgers defeat Rockies Shohei Ohtani hit his 30th home run of the season, marking his sixth consecutive 30-HR campaign, as the Los Angeles Dodgers secured wins against the Colorado Rockies. 49 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-defeat-colorado-rockies-11-5-at-coors-field ### 2026-08-17: Shohei Ohtani nears pitching return with Dodgers bullpen session Shohei Ohtani is set to undergo a bullpen session on August 18 to evaluate his recovery from left knee soreness as the Los Angeles Dodgers manage his workload. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-nears-pitching-return-with-dodgers-bullpen-session ### 2026-08-15: Shohei Ohtani completes bullpen session as Dodgers eye September return Shohei Ohtani has completed a successful bullpen session as the Dodgers eye a September return to pitching. Meanwhile, Justin Wrobleski has been placed on the injured list with forearm inflammation. 23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-begins-bullpen-sessions-for-dodgers-return ### 2026-08-15: Los Angeles Dodgers face pitching challenges and roster adjustments The Los Angeles Dodgers face mixed results as Yoshinobu Yamamoto earns his 12th win, while the team manages bullpen fatigue, Tarik Skubal's integration, and Shohei Ohtani's high-intensity training. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-returns-to-bullpen-for-pitching-recovery ### 2026-08-12: Shohei Ohtani hits 27th home run amid intense NL MVP race Shohei Ohtani hit his 27th home run to help the Dodgers sweep the Royals, while remaining in a tight National League MVP race against Pete Crow-Armstrong as he nears a return to pitching. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-advances-pitching-rehab-amid-nl-mvp-race ### 2026-08-11: Los Angeles Dodgers see Ohtani surge and Blake Snell return Shohei Ohtani continues his strong season with home runs and stolen bases, while the Dodgers welcome back pitcher Blake Snell from the injured list and address player discipline regarding ABS challenges. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-find-momentum-as-betts-shines-and-ohtani-nears-pitching-return ### 2026-08-07: Los Angeles Dodgers bolster rotation with Snell and Skubal returns The Los Angeles Dodgers' rotation is strengthening with Blake Snell's scheduled return on Tuesday and Tarik Skubal's home debut on Monday, as Shohei Ohtani also begins a gradual return to throwing. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-knee-rehab-continues-as-dodgers-chase-nl-west-lead ### 2026-08-04: Shohei Ohtani’s knee issue and Dodgers’ losing streak dominate MLB updates Shohei Ohtani missed a game with a knee issue, returned to hit a two‑run homer and extend his hitting streak, but the Dodgers still endured a five‑game losing streak. Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow are nearing a 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/yomiuri-giants-prospect-tima-belts-seventh-farm-league-homer ### 2026-07-31: Shohei Ohtani sidelined by knee irritation as Dodgers take precaution Shohei Ohtani was sidelined by the Dodgers due to left‑knee irritation and biceps discomfort, with the team opting for a precautionary rest. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-sidelined-by-knee-irritation-as-dodgers-take-precaution ### 2026-07-29: Shohei Ohtani sidelined by knee soreness as Dodgers rest him Shohei Ohtani missed Thursday’s game due to left‑knee soreness; he hasn’t pitched since July 3, also has a biceps issue, received an Orthovisc injection, and MRI shows no structural damage. Dodgers aren’t hurr​ 39 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-knee-injury-stalls-award-chase-sparks-dodgers-trade-talk ### 2026-07-27: Shohei Ohtani's injuries drive Dodgers' trade interest in pitcher Tarik Skubal Ohtani’s knee and biceps issues keep him from pitching, while his 10th leadoff homer ties Dodgers records; Dodgers eye Tarik Skubal as trade deadline nears. 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-knee-and-biceps-issues-hamper-dodgers-pitching-plans ### 2026-07-26: Shohei Ohtani's Knee Regression Forces Dodgers to Halt Pitching Return Shohei Ohtani skipped a July 25 bullpen session due to left‑knee regression; manager Dave Roberts says he won’t pitch until fully confident. He hasn’t pitched since July 3, remains DH, batting .286 with 22 HR, 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-left-knee-irritation-sidelines-him-from-dodgers-bullpen-sessions ### 2026-07-21: Shohei Ohtani's Pitching Start Delayed Amid Dodgers Criticism Shohei Ohtani's Dodgers start is delayed; critics argue the team mishandles his knee, while others say injuries are part of the season for the two‑way star. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-pitching-start-delayed-amid-dodgers-criticism ### 2026-07-21: Dodgers lose 10-7 to Phillies as Emmet Sheehan struggles Dodgers fall 10‑7 to Phillies; starter Emmet Sheehan gave up six runs, while Mookie Betts hit two homers. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dodgers-lose-10-7-to-phillies-as-emmet-sheehan-struggles ### 2026-07-19: Shohei Ohtani’s knee injury sidelines him from pitching for the Dodgers Shohei Ohtani’s left‑knee irritation forces the Dodgers to pull him from pitching duties indefinitely; he remains a DH as the team leads the NL West and seeks a postseason run. 21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohananis-knee-injury-sidelines-him-from-dodgers-pitching-schedule ### 2026-07-16: Shohei Ohtani merchandise draws fan backlash in New York ahead of Dodgers‑Yankees series New York stores promoted Shohei Ohtani with joint Ohtani‑Judge merch before the Dodgers‑Yankees games, prompting fan criticism over low‑quality design; Ohtani will bat as DH, Judge remains injured. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-merchandise-draws-fan-backlash-in-new-york-ahead-of-dodgersyankees-series ### 2026-07-15: Shohei Ohtani Leads Dodgers' Cy Young Push as Skubal Stays with Tigers Shohei Ohtani shines for the Dodgers, cementing his Cy Young candidacy with a 1.79 ERA, while Tigers ace Tyrick Skubal says he’ll stay through season, pausing any trade talks. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-leads-dodgers-cy-young-push-as-skubal-stays-with-tigers ### 2026-07-15: Mike Tyson’s hot‑mic remark at ESPYs shows he didn’t know Shohei Ohtani is male Mike Tyson asked on a hot mic at the 2026 ESPYs if Shohei Ohtani was a “guy,” revealing he didn’t know the male Dodgers star, whose award honored a historic NLCS game. 16 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mike-tysons-baffling-shoheis-a-guy-remark-at-espys ### 2026-07-14: Shohei Ohtani skips pitching in Dodgers-Yankees series, serves as DH Shohei Ohtani will not pitch in the Dodgers‑Yankees series due to a left‑knee issue; he will serve as designated hitter while Sasaki, Sehan and Yamamoto start the three games. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-skips-pitching-in-dodgers-yankees-series-serves-as-dh ### 2026-07-13: Shohei Ohtani's Tokyo Series cleats to be auctioned as his left knee receives treatment Shohei Ohtani's Tokyo Series cleats are up for auction while his left knee receives drainage and a cortisone injection during the All‑Star break. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-tokyo-series-cleats-to-be-auctioned-as-his-left-knee-receives-treatment ### 2026-07-11: Tristan Peters named All-Star replacement for Nick Kurtz Chicago outfielder Tristan Peters was named to the 2026 AL All‑Star team as a replacement for injured first baseman Nick Kurtz after hitting for the cycle and becoming the second Canadian to do so. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tristan-peters-named-all-star-replacement-for-nick-kurtz ### 2026-07-11: MLB: Twins pitcher Go Woo‑suk earns first hold as Ohtani skips All‑Star Game Twins’ Go Woo‑suk secures his first MLB hold, while Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani skips the All‑Star Game for knee surgery. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-twins-pitcher-go-woosuk-earns-first-hold-as-ohtani-skips-allstar-game ### 2026-07-11: MLB adds four injury replacements for All-Star Game Iván Herrera, Nick Martinez, Ceddanne Rafaela and Munetaka Murakami were named injury replacements for the 2026 MLB All‑Star Game in Philadelphia. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-adds-four-injury-replacements-for-all-star-game ### 2026-07-10: Fukuoka's MLB Café to Host Free Public Viewing of 2026 All-Star Game Fukuoka's MLB café at BOSS E・ZO will free‑host a public viewing of the 2026 MLB All‑Star Game on July 15, with a large screen, a ¥2,000 morning plate, and official MLB merchandise on sale. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fukuokas-mlb-caf-to-host-free-public-viewing-of-2026-all-star-game ### 2026-07-10: Shohei Ohtani to miss 2026 All-Star Game and upcoming start because of left‑knee irritation Shohei Ohtani will miss the 2026 All‑Star Game and a Friday start due to left‑knee irritation; he’ll stay as DH and undergo treatment as the Dodgers chase a third straight title. 38 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-to-miss-2026-mlb-all-star-game-due-to-knee-irritation ### 2026-07-08: Shohei Ohtani and Dodgers Earn 2026 ESPY Nominations as Player Eyes MVP Record Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers receive 2026 ESPY nominations while analysts debate his chance to break Barry Bonds' MVP record after his 300th homer. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-and-dodgers-earn-2026-espy-nominations-as-player-eyes-mvp-record ### 2026-07-08: MLB celebrates Shohei Ohtani's 300th homer while condemning a disastrous Royals‑Mets game Ohtani’s 300th homer earned an MLB tribute video, while a chaotic Royals‑Mets game was denounced as one of the worst, sparking jokes about fans shifting to soccer. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-celebrates-shohei-ohtanis-300th-homer-while-condemning-a-disastrous-royalsmets-game ### 2026-07-08: Los Angeles Dodgers split games with Colorado Rockies, dropping second 4-3 after error‑filled inning Los Angeles Dodgers beat Colorado Rockies 4-3 with Mookie Betts' late hit, then lost 4-3 the next night after a costly multi‑error inning, even as Justin Wrobleski pitched well and Shohei Ohtani reached his 300 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-split-games-with-colorado-rockies-dropping-second-4-3-after-errorfilled-inning ### 2026-07-08: MLB 2026: Ohtani's 300th homer, Fukuoka breakfast club launch, and July broadcast schedule Ohtani hits his 300th MLB homer as the Dodgers lose to the Rockies; a new MLB Breakfast Club opens in Fukuoka with live game screenings; a July 10 MLB game airs early on SPORT1+. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-2026-ohtanis-300th-homer-fukuoka-breakfast-club-launch-and-july-broadcast-schedule ### 2026-07-08: Shohei Ohtani hits 300th career home run, first Japanese‑born player to reach milestone Shohei Ohtani hit his 300th career home run as a leadoff against the Rockies, becoming the first Japanese‑born player to reach the mark; the Dodgers later lost 4‑3 after defensive errors. 24 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-hits-300th-career-home-run-for-dodgers ### 2026-07-06: Shohei Ohtani improves catcher rapport, urged to join Home Run Derby Ohtani and catcher Dalton Rushing reported better communication after a win, while U.S. media urged the star to enter the Home Run Derby despite injury concerns. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-improves-catcher-rapport-urged-to-join-home-run-derby ### 2026-07-05: Shohei Ohtani hits 300th MLB home run, first Japanese player to reach the mark Shohei Ohtani hit his 300th MLB home run on July 8, 2026, becoming the first Japanese player to reach the milestone and strengthening his MVP candidacy. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-joins-300hr-club-as-first-japanborn-player ### 2026-07-05: Shohei Ohtani back in Dodgers lineup, delivers two-run homer Shohei Ohtani returned to the Dodgers, hitting a two-run homer to extend their NL West lead over the Padres. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-back-in-dodgers-lineup-delivers-two-run-homer ### 2026-07-05: MLB All-Star roster includes injured stars Skenes, Misiorowski, Ohtani and others Injured pitchers Skenes, Misiorowski and Ohtani may miss the 2024 All-Star Game; Dodgers have four starters, and many top players grapple with health issues. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-all-star-roster-includes-injured-stars-skenes-misiorowski-ohtani-and-others ### 2026-07-04: Shohei Ohtani's Biceps Issue Prompts Dodgers to Rest Star After Friday Win Shohei Ohtani exited early Friday vs. the Padres with a biceps strain; the Dodgers will rest him Saturday and evaluate his workload moving forward. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-biceps-issue-prompts-dodgers-to-rest-star-after-friday-win ### 2026-07-04: Dodgers' Schedule Shift Makes Shohei Ohtani Unlikely to Pitch in 2026 MLB All-Star Game Dodgers’ schedule change leaves Shohei Ohtani with only three rest days, making a pitching appearance at the July 14 All‑Star Game unlikely; he will still bat as DH after leading fan voting. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dodgers-schedule-shift-makes-shohei-ohtani-unlikely-to-pitch-in-2026-mlb-all-star-game ### 2026-07-04: Shohei Ohtani tops fan voting for 2026 MLB All-Star Game Shohei Ohtani led fan voting for the 2026 MLB All‑Star Game in Philadelphia; Dodgers have four starters, Phillies five, and other teams, including the Blue Jays, are also represented. 32 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-doubtful-to-pitch-in-mlb-all-star-game ### 2026-07-03: Dodgers beat Padres 4-3 as Ohtani and catcher Dalton Rushing find rhythm The Dodgers edged the Padres 4-3, with Shohei Ohtani delivering a quality start and catcher Dalton Rushing showing improved chemistry; Teoscar Hernández hit a seventh‑inning grand slam. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dodgers-beat-padres-4-3-as-ohtani-and-catcher-dalton-rushing-find-rhythm ### 2026-07-02: Shohei Ohtani pitches and bats in Dodgers' home game after second child is born Shohei Ohtani debuted at home for the Dodgers after his second child’s birth, while a schedule shift likely ends his All‑Star Game chances, prompting mixed fan reactions. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-pitches-and-bats-in-dodgers-home-game-after-second-child-is-born ### 2026-07-01: Shohei Ohtani posts historic June with 8 homers and 3 pitching wins Shohei Ohtani hit .333 with eight homers, 19 RBIs and a 1.091 OPS, while also posting three wins and a 3.28 ERA in June, a first‑of‑its‑type MLB record. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-posts-historic-june-with-8-homers-and-3-pitching-wins ### 2026-06-28: Shohei Ohtani meets Murakami in Chicago dinner; faces online debate over his back‑to‑back children Shohei Ohtani dined with Murakami in Chicago after a series, sparking fan chatter, while his recent announcement of a second child close to his first drew online criticism and defense. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-meets-murakami-in-chicago-dinner-faces-online-debate-over-his-backtoback-children ### 2026-06-28: Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani tops MVP mock vote as Kyle Tucker's contract draws criticism Shohei Ohtani leads MLB MVP mock voting with a dominant margin, while Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker faces criticism over his $240 M contract after a sluggish start. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-shohei-ohtani-tops-mvp-mock-vote-as-kyle-tuckers-contract-draws-criticism ### 2026-06-27: Los Angeles Dodgers beat San Diego Padres 4-2 as Emmet Sheehan steadies rotation Dodgers beat Padres 4‑2 in the series finale; Emmet Sheehan pitched five strong innings and Mookie Betts hit a bases‑loaded two‑run single, extending the Dodgers’ NL West lead to ten games. 21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-dodgers-rout-padres-15-3-as-yamamoto-shines-will-smith-injury-persists ### 2026-06-26: Los Angeles Dodgers register 9‑run inning in San Diego, Ohtani stars as DH The Dodgers beat the Padres 15‑3 in San Diego, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani’s two‑hit, two‑run performance as DH, Yusei Yamamoto’s eighth win, and a historic 9‑run sixth inning – the first such surge in thecity 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dodgers-host-padres-with-shohei-ohtani-as-dh-and-yusei-yamamoto-starting ### 2026-06-26: Shohei Ohtani’s atypical Dodgers contract sparks criticism and internal tension Shohei Ohtani’s $7 billion, 97‑percent‑deferred Dodgers contract draws fan amazement, while teammate Kyle Tucker faces criticism for underperformance and catcher Dalton Rushing’s dispute with Ohtani highlights 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-dodgers-contract-sparks-us-reaction-amid-team-tension ### 2026-06-26: Shohei Ohtani and Dalton Rushing reconcile after on‑field dispute After a June clash with catcher Dalton Rushing, Shohei Ohtani praised him following a home run, indicating the dispute is resolved. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-and-dalton-rushing-reconcile-after-onfield-dispute ### 2026-06-25: Shohei Ohtani and Ernie Clement named All-Star starters after topping fan voting Ohtani and Clement top MLB All‑Star fan voting and become automatic starters; the Blue Jays lose a third straight game to the Rangers and DFA pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson. 21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ernie-clement-earns-all-star-spot-as-blue-jays-gear-up-for-return ### 2026-06-25: Shohei Ohtani assumes pitch‑calling duties as Dodgers rally past Twins Shohei Ohtani took over pitch‑calling after a miscommunication with catcher Dalton Rushing, guiding the Dodgers to a 4‑3 win over the Twins, while former manager Joe Maddon called the tension a “bad look.” 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-assumes-pitchcalling-duties-as-dodgers-rally-past-twins ### 2026-06-25: MLB All-Star fan voting draws criticism for Aaron Clement and highlights Japanese third‑base leader Aaron Clement tops AL fan voting for the MLB All‑Star Game, sparking U.S. backlash, while Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto leads third‑base votes, a historic first for Japan. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-sets-mlb-all-star-voting-record-amid-dodgers-battery-tension ### 2026-06-25: Shohei Ohtani welcomes second child, a boy, and talks about double the parenting challenge Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani announced his second child, a boy, saying caring for two kids is twice as hard as one while he heads into a road trip. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-welcomes-second-child-a-boy-and-talks-about-double-the-parenting-challenge ### 2026-06-24: Mookie Betts hits 300th career home run as Dodgers beat Twins 4-3 Mookie Betts' 300th career homer powered the Dodgers to a 4‑3 win over the Twins, with Shohei Ohtani also contributing. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mookie-betts-hits-300th-career-home-run-as-dodgers-beat-twins-4-3 ### 2026-06-24: Shohei Ohtani to Pitch and Hit for Dodgers in Twins Game Shohei Ohtani will both pitch and serve as DH for the Dodgers against the Twins, with stadium screens sharing personal trivia about the star player. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-to-pitch-and-hit-for-dodgers-in-twins-game ### 2026-06-23: MLB All-Star voting highlights historic Japanese infielder candidacy and criticism of high-paid outfielder Kazuma Okamoto nears a historic All‑Star nod as the first Japanese infielder, while Mets’ Juan Soto, despite a ¥123.5 bn contract, ranks sixth in fan voting, sparking criticism. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-all-star-voting-highlights-historic-japanese-infielder-candidacy-and-criticism-of-high-paid-outf ### 2026-06-23: MLB All-Star voting anomalies spotlight Ohtani, Clement and surprising vote leaders Fan voting for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game yields anomalies: Ohtani and Clement top the ballot, while players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Pete Crow‑Armstrong and James Wood rank unusually high or low despite on‑ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mlb-all-star-voting-anomalies-spotlight-ohtani-clement-and-surprising-vote-leaders ### 2026-06-23: Los Angeles Dodgers sweep Minnesota Twins as Ohtani pitches and Betts hits 300th homer The Dodgers swept the Twins 4‑3 in the finale as Shohei Ohtani pitched six innings, took over pitch‑calling after a clash with catcher Dalton Rushing, and Mookie Betts hit his 300th career homer; Will Smith is仍 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-takes-pitch-calling-from-catcher-dalton-rushing-in-dodgers-win-over-twins ### 2026-06-23: Shohei Ohtani’s second child birth draws criticism over close spacing, sparking medical and Korean media debate Shohei Ohtani’s second child, born a year after his daughter, prompted Japanese critique over short spacing; a leading OB‑GYN defended flexibility and Korean media highlighted the backlash. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-second-child-birth-draws-criticism-over-close-spacing-sparking-medical-and-korean-med ### 2026-06-23: Shohei Ohtani's dual role fuels Dodgers' victory against Twins Shohei Ohtani pitched, hit a leadoff homer and earned the win as the Dodgers beat the Twins 4‑3, while manager Dave Roberts confirmed catcher Daulton Levis’s imminent return. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-hits-17th-homer-as-dodgers-beat-twins-manager-addresses-knee-and-finger-issues ### 2026-06-22: Boston Red Sox slump as MLB All-Star voting heats up Boston Red Sox sit at 31‑44 after a managerial change, while MLB All‑Star voting sees Shohei Ohtani and Ernie Clement leading the NL and AL, with Venezuelan stars also in contention. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/boston-red-sox-slump-as-mlb-all-star-voting-heats-up ### 2026-06-22: Ernie Clement leads AL voting for 2026 MLB All-Star Game Blue Jays’ Ernie Clement leads AL fan voting with 2.05 M votes; Shohei Ohtani tops overall. Phase 1 ends June 25; All‑Star Game set for July 14 in Philadelphia. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ernie-clement-leads-al-voting-for-2026-mlb-all-star-game ### 2026-06-22: Shohei Ohtani hits 17th leadoff homer as Dodgers beat Twins Shohei Ohtani led off with his 17th season homer, a 112.8 mph blast, as the Dodgers beat the Twins 2–1 on June 23, 2026. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-tops-all-star-voting-while-finger-blister-hampers-his-pitching ### 2026-06-22: Shohei Ohtani’s strong start with Dodgers makes him a Cy Young long‑shot Shohei Ohtani is 7‑2 with a 1.47 ERA for the Dodgers and leads the NL in OBP, but oddsmakers still consider him a long‑shot for the Cy Young as Jacob Misiorowski is favored. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-strong-start-with-dodgers-makes-him-a-cy-young-longshot ### 2026-06-21: Shohei Ohtani hits home run after welcoming second child Shohei Ohtani returned after the birth of his second child, hit a solo home run in the ninth inning against the Orioles, and sparked mixed fan reactions about the coverage of his fatherhood. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-returns-after-birth-of-second-child-hits-home-run-for-dodgers ### 2026-06-19: Shohei Ohtani returns after birth of second child, hits ninth‑inning homer but Dodgers lose to Orioles Shohei Ohtani announced his second child, missed one game, returned to hit a ninth‑inning solo homer, but the Dodgers lost 3‑2 to the Orioles. 22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-hits-16th-home-run-in-first-game-after-second-childs-birth ### 2026-06-19: Shohei Ohtani on paternity leave as Dodgers host Orioles Shohei Ohtani took paternity leave for the birth of his second child, missed Friday’s 6‑5 win over the Orioles, and is expected back Saturday; the Dodgers remain favored in the series. 43 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtanis-two-way-brilliance-sparks-goat-debate ### 2026-06-18: Shohei Ohtani pitches through knee inflammation and hand blister as Dodgers clinch 5-4 win Shohei Ohtani pitched for six innings despite knee inflammation and a hand blister, helping the Dodgers beat the Rays 5‑4 and staying a top NL MVP favorite. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-pitches-through-knee-inflammation-and-hand-blister-as-dodgers-clinch-5-4-win ### 2026-06-17: Shohei Otani earns 7th win for Dodgers as MLB broadcast schedule released Shohei Otani secured his 7th win for the Dodgers and will bat as DH in the June 20 game, broadcast on NHK BS11 and streaming services. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-otani-earns-7th-win-for-dodgers-as-mlb-broadcast-schedule-released ### 2026-06-16: Shohei Ohtani battles knee concerns and a batting slump while earning his 7th win for the Dodgers Shohei Ohtani’s knee issues hurt his batting (0‑for‑4, avg < .300) but he still earned his 7th win, pitching six innings with four runs and a bleeding finger. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-and-kta-chiga-struggle-after-injuries-in-mlb-games ### 2026-06-15: Shohei Ohtani tops MLB All-Star voting as Dodgers and Braves dominate NL selections Shohei Ohtani leads NL All-Star voting with 1.16 M votes; Dodgers and Braves dominate selections, while Yordan Álvarez tops the AL roster ahead of the July 14 game in Philadelphia. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-tops-mlb-all-star-voting-as-dodgers-and-braves-dominate-nl-selections ### 2026-06-13: Shohei Ohtani tops MLB All-Star voting as Dodgers dominate fan selections Shohei Ohtani leads early MLB All‑Star voting with 1.17 M votes; several Dodgers top position votes as Phase 1 ends June 25. Dave Roberts to manage NL All‑Stars. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-tops-mlb-all-star-voting-as-dodgers-dominate-fan-selections ### 2026-06-11: Tyler Callihan's two-homer night lifts Pirates over Dodgers Rookie Tyler Callihan hit his first two career homers—a solo off Shohei Ohtani and a three‑run blast off Kyle Hurt—as the Pirates rallied to beat the Dodgers 9‑8. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tyler-callihans-two-homer-night-lifts-pirates-over-dodgers ### 2026-06-10: Pirates rally to beat Dodgers 9-8 after Ohtani collapse Pirates erased a five‑run Dodgers lead, winning 9‑8 after Ohtani’s collapse and a late‑inning rally. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pirates-rally-to-9-8-win-over-dodgers-after-ohtanis-late-collapse ### 2026-06-04: Shohei Ohtani powers Dodgers to 7-0 win over Diamondbacks and gets Thursday off Shohei Ohtani threw six shutout innings, hit above .300 and led the Dodgers to a 7‑0 win over the Diamondbacks; he will rest on Thursday. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-powers-dodgers-to-7-0-win-over-diamondbacks-and-gets-thursday-off ### 2026-06-03: Shohei Ohtani's 0.74 ERA fuels Dodgers' sweep of Diamondbacks Shohei Ohtani’s six scoreless innings cut his ERA to 0.74 and, with a 3‑for‑4 night, powered the Dodgers to a 7‑0 win over the Diamondbacks, cementing his MVP and Cy Young candidacy. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-powers-dodgers-to-7-0-win-over-diamondbacks ### 2026-05-27: Shohei Ohtani throws six no-hit innings, hits leadoff homer in Dodgers' 4-1 win over Rockies Shohei Ohtani threw six no-hit innings, hit a leadoff homer, and led the Dodgers to a 4-1 win over the Rockies, lamenting his lack of command. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-throws-six-no-hit-innings-hits-leadoff-homer-in-dodgers-4-1-win-over-rockies ### 2026-05-05: Shohei Ohtani does not bat when pitching for Dodgers Shohei Ohtani consistently skips batting when he pitches for the Dodgers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-does-not-bat-when-pitching-for-dodgers ### 2026-05-03: Shohei Ohtani endures four‑game hitless streak while clinching NL Pitcher of the Month Ohtani endures a four‑game hitless stretch while earning NL Pitcher of the Month for April. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shohei-ohtani-endures-fourgame-hitless-streak-while-clinching-nl-pitcher-of-the-month ### 2026-04-25: Dodgers push back on Shohei Ohtani Rule criticism as Cubs manager brands it bad Dodgers reject Cubs critique of the Shohei Ohtani Rule; Counsell says the rule is bad. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dodgers-push-back-on-shohei-ohtani-rule-criticism-as-cubs-manager-brands-it-bad ### 2026-04-20: Cubs manager calls Ohtani rule bizarre as Dodgers benefit from two-way designation Counsell calls the Ohtani two-way rule bizarre as Dodgers use an extra pitcher due to his designation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cubs-manager-calls-ohtani-rule-bizarre-as-dodgers-benefit-from-two-way-designation --- Cite as: Ohtani Pitching Return Uncertain Amid Injury and Slump. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/debate-over-the-ohtani-twoway-rule-and-his-early-season-performance-with-the-dodgers