The Los Angeles Dodgers have pulled Shohei Ohtani from his pitching start on Friday, July 10th, the team announced ahead of Friday’s game.
The Dodgers were set to start a three-game series on Friday vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium before the All-Star break.
However, to keep him upright for the rest of the season amid his left knee soreness, they decided not to have him pitch before the break.
Additionally, the Dodgers said he will not play in the All-Star Game in Philadelphia, which will allow him to get essentially a week of rest and more than a week between his next pitching start and the All-Star Game.
Ohtani had knee inflammation return during a road trip against the Pittsburgh Pirates, which led to a one-game absence against the Chicago White Sox.
He quickly returned to action, but manager Dave Roberts has been clear that he will be managed based on how he feels about his knee.
Here is what the Dodgers shared regarding Ohtani’s status:
Los Angeles Dodger Shohei Ohtani will not make his scheduled start on the mound this evening against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to continued irritation in his left knee. He will serve as the designated hitter the rest of the weekend, but following the series against the Diamondbacks he will have some interventions on his knee to put him in the best position for the second half of the season. Unfortunately, due to these events, he will not be able to travel to Philadelphia and participate in the 2026 All-Star Game.
Who will pitch for the Dodgers on Friday vs. the D-Backs?
Rather than deploy Ohtani, the Dodgers will do an unplanned bullpen game. Luckily, the team is coming off a rest day, meaning there would be plenty of arms able to give some length.
Additionally, before the game, there could be a move to add some fresh arms if needed.
The Dodgers’ odds of winning the game definitely take a hit without one of the best pitchers in baseball taking the mound, but at least they get his bat.
Considering their National League West lead, the Dodgers have plenty of room to stretch their legs and get Ohtani off his feet.
