Dodgers bench Shohei Ohtani due to bicep and neck discomfort

The Los Angeles Dodgers omitted Shohei Ohtani from the starting lineup for the series finale against the St. Louis Cardinals at Dodger Stadium on Thursday. Manager Dave Roberts stated he informed the designated hitter of the decision via text message, citing ongoing discomfort in his right bicep and neck. Alex Call replaced Shohei Ohtani in the batting order for the game. Although the team plans to reassess the superstar's condition following the contest, Roberts indicated that an injured list stint remains unlikely at this stage. Shohei Ohtani previously transitioned to a day-to-day status, having already been restricted from pitching since early July due to a recurring left-knee issue. The Dodgers open a three-game series against the Washington Nationals at home on Friday following the conclusion of the current set against St. Louis.

• 9:25 AMYahoo Sports — “Is He Scared To Say It To Shohei Ohtani’s Face?” – Fans React After Dave Roberts Admits Texting Dodgers Star About Line-up Omission vs Cardinals