Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani is expected to return to the active lineup on Wednesday, according to manager Dave Roberts, after missing time due to right biceps inflammation.
Shohei Ohtani Injury Timeline and Recovery
According to ESPN reporting, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated on Tuesday that Ohtani will rejoin the lineup barring any late setbacks. Ohtani has been sidelined on the injured list since September 11, with his absence backdated to September 8, due to right biceps inflammation.
The injury compounded a physically challenging second half of the season for the four-time MVP. Ohtani was previously removed from the starting rotation two months prior because of a knee injury. Consequently, the Dodgers shut him down from pitching for the remainder of 2026 to preserve his health, relying solely on his bat in the designated hitter role.
Offensive Impact and Season Statistics
Before his stint on the injured list, the physical toll of Ohtani’s injuries affected his production at the plate. Ohtani batted .122/.295/.184 with zero home runs and 21 strikeouts over his last 13 games prior to the shutdown.
Overall, Ohtani maintains a .277/.380/.522 slash line with a 146 OPS+, alongside 25 doubles, four triples, 30 home runs, 80 RBI, 89 runs, and 11 stolen bases on the 2026 season. Roberts noted earlier this month that Ohtani’s injury was minor enough that he would play through it if the postseason were currently underway, but the team opted to rest him to ensure he reaches peak condition.
“If he was a 5 before, he’s probably an 8 or 9 now,” Roberts said, via the California Post, describing Ohtani as feeling considerably better.
Postseason Preparation for the Dodgers
Assuming his return proceeds as planned on Wednesday, Ohtani will have a five-game window to regain his timing at the plate before the conclusion of the regular season. This stretch effectively serves as a substitute for a minor league rehab assignment.
The Dodgers hold a 9-3 record since Ohtani last appeared in a game, though those matchups did not feature opponents with winning records. With a likely bye awaiting the team shortly, Ohtani will have additional days to rest and recover before the start of the postseason series.
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