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Shohei Ohtani plays catch as he works towards returning to mound

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 11:30 PM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Shohei Ohtani plays catch as he works towards returning to mound

Summary

Shohei Ohtani played catch on August 8 in Phoenix, marking a key step in his recovery process. The star has not pitched since July 3 against the San Diego Padres due to injury. This season, Ohtani has a record of 8-2 and a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts. His return could significantly enhance the Dodgers' already strong pitching lineup. The team looks forward to his potential impact on their World Series title defense and Ohtani's chase for the NL Most Valuable Player award.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Ohtani last pitched on July 3 against the Padres.
•He played catch in Phoenix before the game against the Diamondbacks.
•Ohtani is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA this season.
•His return is significant for Dodgers' pitching depth.
•Ohtani is a candidate for NL MVP if he returns to the mound.

Latest Updates

7:21 PMYahoo Sports — Shohei Ohtani to Take Another Step Towards Pitching Return
11:30 PMYahoo Sports — Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani takes major step towards pitching return before Diamondbacks clash
11:11 PMYahoo Sports — Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani takes major step in return to mound

What they're saying

"
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani will play catch once again ahead of Monday’s game against the Kansas City Royals, per Fabian Ardaya. Ohtani played catch Saturday ahead of the Dodgers’ 2-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, marking a…
— Yahoo Sports