Los Angeles Dodgers fans got the news they've been waiting for: Shohei Ohtani is throwing again. Over the weekend, at Chase Field in Phoenix, the two-way superstar played catch in the outfield before game action, marking his first step back from a nagging knee issue that has kept him off the mound for a month.
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani will gradually increase the intensity of his throwing sessions throughout the week. The plan is to build arm strength without rushing, especially with the postseason looming. The Dodgers are being careful, but they're also confident enough to keep Ohtani's rehab entirely at the major league level—no minor league assignment for a player who remains a daily force in the lineup as designated hitter.
A measured return, with October in mind
Ohtani's knee problem first surfaced in late July, and the Dodgers have been cautious ever since. While he's been sidelined from pitching, he hasn't missed a beat at the plate. Through the 2026 season, he's batting .292 with 26 home runs, 71 RBIs, and a 158 OPS+. His bat has been essential, especially as the team has stumbled recently, losing eight of their last nine games.
Over the weekend, Ohtani drove in the game-winning run—a timely hit that gave the Dodgers their only victory in that stretch. It's a reminder of his value even when he's not on the mound. But the real prize is getting him back to pitching, and the organization is determined to do it right.
Roberts emphasized that the team will not send Ohtani on a minor league rehab assignment. Instead, all mound preparation will happen alongside the major league coaching staff. This approach keeps him close to the action and allows the medical team to monitor his knee closely as he ramps up.
Rotation depth could be restored
The Dodgers' starting rotation has been battered this season, but there's hope on the horizon. Alongside Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow is also progressing well in his recovery, and Blake Snell is working his way back too. If all three can return to form, Los Angeles would boast a formidable rotation heading into October.
Ohtani's return to pitching would be a massive boost, but the Dodgers are also mindful of his long-term health. They've built a roster that can absorb some early-season struggles, and they're not about to risk their biggest star for a regular-season win. The plan is to have him ready for the final stretch and the playoffs, not a moment sooner.
For fans, the sight of Ohtani throwing again is a welcome one. It's a sign that the team's cautious approach is paying off. And with the postseason just over a month away, the timing couldn't be better.
As Ohtani continues his throwing program, the Dodgers will watch closely. If his knee responds well, he could be back on the mound in September, giving Los Angeles a much-needed boost. The road to October is never easy, but with Ohtani on the mend, the Dodgers' chances just got a little brighter.
In the meantime, Ohtani remains a key figure in the clubhouse. His tribute to teammate Miguel Rojas after Rojas' father passed away showed his character off the field. And his focus on the game is unwavering, even as he navigates this recovery.
The Dodgers' next series against the Kansas City Royals will be another test, but the real story is Ohtani's progress. Every throw he makes brings him closer to the mound, and every day he stays healthy brings the Dodgers closer to their ultimate goal.
