Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Monday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds after a four-game absence to manage lingering injuries to his left knee and right biceps. The four-time MVP went hitless in his return, later stating he is “focusing on hitting” for the rest of the season. Ohtani has not pitched for the Dodgers since July 3, and his post-game comments have effectively ruled out a return to the mound this month.
The NL MVP Race
Ohtani’s decision has sparked intense debate among fans regarding the National League MVP race. While Ohtani was the early front-runner, Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has surged in contention over the last two months. Fans have noted the shift, with one remarking, “He saw Pete Crow-Armstrong running away with MVP.” Crow-Armstrong is currently batting a career-best.281 with 41 home runs, trailing only Kyle Schwarber’s 43.
Pitching Workload and Performance
- Although Ohtani has not pitched since July, he initiated a throwing program on August 8.
- The four-time MVP has struggled at the plate since starting that program, recording a 19-for-96 stretch.
- Ohtani previously suffered a setback during a throwing session and admitted he does not want pitching duties to force him to miss additional games.
- The Dodgers star hopes that reducing his pitching workload will help him recover his hitting form as the team pushes through the final stretch of the 2026 campaign.
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