The Los Angeles Dodgers will be without superstar Shohei Ohtani for a third consecutive game on Saturday as the team continues to manage discomfort the slugger reported earlier this week.
Ohtani has been absent from the lineup since reporting soreness in his neck and along his right arm during Wednesday's 8-6 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. The team has opted for a cautious approach with their marquee player, holding him out of action while monitoring his condition.
Despite missing three straight games, the Dodgers have not placed Ohtani on the injured list, suggesting the organization views the issue as day-to-day rather than requiring an extended absence. The decision to keep him off the injured list maintains roster flexibility while allowing the team to evaluate his recovery progress on a daily basis.
The timing of the soreness raises questions about whether the discomfort is related to Ohtani's batting mechanics or general wear from the season. As a designated hitter this year following elbow surgery that has kept him from pitching duties, any arm-related soreness warrants careful attention from the Dodgers' medical staff.
The Dodgers will continue to assess Ohtani's status as they navigate the final month of the regular season. His absence represents a significant gap in a lineup that has relied heavily on his production throughout the campaign.
