Shohei Ohtani progress toward return to Dodgers' rotation after live batting practice
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 11:32 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Shohei Ohtani took a significant step towards returning to the Dodgers' rotation by throwing live batting practice at Dodger Stadium. This marks his first live session since a knee injury sidelined him in early July. Manager Dave Roberts reported positive feedback from coaches, indicating Ohtani looked nearly back to his normal self. Ohtani is expected to throw another live session before potentially rejoining the rotation. Roberts mentioned that Ohtani's knee issues appear to be resolved, allowing him to adjust his pitching mechanics effectively.
- •Ohtani threw 30 pitches to catcher Will Smith during live batting practice.
- •He has been out of the rotation since July 3 due to knee issues.
- •Roberts indicated Ohtani likely requires another live session before returning.
- •Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages may undergo surgery for a fractured hand.
- •Tyler Glasnow is set to start against the Braves on Tuesday without limitations.
- 11:32 PMYahoo Sports — Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani throws to live batters as progression toward pitching return continues
- 10:39 PMYahoo Sports — Shohei Ohtani takes 'really positive' step in push to return to Dodgers' rotation
"The Dodgers plan to slowly work Ohtani back, pitching one inning in his first few starts in hopes of having him ready to throw six innings by the postseason.
"Shoehi Ohtani threw live batting practice for the first time since sustaining a knee injury that has kept him out of the Dodgers' rotation since July.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 22, 2026, 11:32 PMDodgers' Shohei Ohtani throws to live batters as progression toward pitching return continues
The Dodgers plan to slowly work Ohtani back, pitching one inning in his first few starts in hopes of having him ready to throw six innings by the postseason.
- Yahoo SportsAug 22, 2026, 10:39 PMShohei Ohtani takes 'really positive' step in push to return to Dodgers' rotation
Shoehi Ohtani threw live batting practice for the first time since sustaining a knee injury that has kept him out of the Dodgers' rotation since July.
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