Dave Roberts: Shohei Ohtani Unlikely To Pitch Again In 2026

Ohtani likely done pitching in 2026
 

Shohei Ohtani 'unlikely' to pitch again this season, Dave Roberts says. Injuries derail Ohtani's return as full-time two-way player.  

“Obviously if you're looking at the calendar, how much he's thrown in the last week...”

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani probably won’t pitch again this season, manager Dave Roberts said.

The Japanese standout has battled several injuries this year and sat out four straight games this week, his longest absence since signing with the Dodgers in 2023.

Ohtani hasn’t taken the mound since July 3. He’s dealt with inflammation and soreness, and suffered setbacks after bullpen sessions.

Roberts said Sunday he’s hopeful Ohtani can return to the Dodgers’ lineup as early as Monday.

With only three weeks left in the regular season, Roberts played down the chances of Ohtani going back to a full starter’s role this year.  

“Obviously if you're looking at the calendar, how much he's thrown in the last week, I think we can all do the math,” Roberts said.

When asked if Ohtani could work as an opener for an inning at a time, Roberts replied: “I think that's unlikely.”

 

Ohtani has been key to the Dodgers winning back-to-back World Series the last two years, but his time on the mound has been limited.

After having two surgeries on his right elbow in 2023, Ohtani didn’t pitch for the Dodgers until June of last year.

 

Coming off an offseason without rehab, 2026 was supposed to be the year Ohtani went back to being a full-time two-way player. The Japanese star even had his sights set on a Cy Young Award.

That plan has been derailed by injuries to his left knee, right biceps, and neck.

Dave Roberts just said Shohei Ohtani should be good for tomorrow pic.twitter.com/FOnBvjtZC3

— DodgersBeat | Dodgers News & Interviews (@DodgersBeat) September 6, 2026

Ohtani’s hitting has also dipped lately as he’s tried to ramp up as a pitcher.