The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed two of their most productive hitters—Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman—on the sidelines due to injuries ahead of a critical stretch of the season.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Wednesday that Ohtani will not play against the Cincinnati Reds, with his right arm issue persisting after four at-bats over the past four days. Roberts indicated the team may place Ohtani on the injured list (IL) if his condition does not improve, citing a 15-day timeline as a potential concern. Ohtani, who leads the Dodgers in home runs (30) and RBIs (80), has struggled at the plate recently, going 6-for-52 since Aug. 18 with no home runs.
Meanwhile, Freeman was held out of the lineup with right knee discomfort, though Roberts stated the team is not currently considering placing him on the IL. Freeman, the team’s leading hitter (.297 average), is expected to rest through Thursday before being evaluated for a possible return Friday in Miami. Roberts described Freeman’s knee issue as bothersome but not severe enough for IL placement at this time.
Roki Sasaki, who has been sidelined with a blister on his pitching hand, threw a simulated game Wednesday and could return soon. Dodgers pitching coaches called his session “really good” and expressed optimism about his readiness.
The Dodgers entered Wednesday’s game with a magic number of seven to clinch their 13th National League West title in 14 seasons. The team is already without center fielder Andy Pages and backup catcher Dalton Rushing, adding to their injury woes as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.
Roberts emphasized that the decisions to rest Ohtani and Freeman were made to prioritize long-term health over short-term gains. He noted that Ohtani’s biceps and arm issues have persisted since July, while Freeman’s knee has been a recurring concern in recent days. The manager did not rule out further roster adjustments as the playoffs approach.
The Dodgers have won five of their last six games without Ohtani, but his absence—both as a hitter and potential pitcher—remains a significant concern. Ohtani’s 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85.2 innings this season highlight his value on the mound, where the Dodgers lack his two-way impact.
Freeman’s .297 batting average and consistent production have been critical to the Dodgers’ offensive success, making his health a top priority as the team eyes postseason contention. Roberts stated that Freeman’s availability could hinge on whether he receives an extra day of rest before potential activation Friday.