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Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani missed his fourth straight game on Sunday because of several physical problems, but the team says he could return as early as Monday. Reuters reported that Ohtani has been dealing with pain in his right biceps, left knee, and neck. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the two-way superstar had made progress and might be ready to play against the Cincinnati Reds. The news is receiving major attention because Ohtani is one of the most famous athletes in baseball and has fans around the world, especially in the United States and Japan.
Ohtani last played on Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals. He went hitless in four at-bats and struck out four times. He had also been in a difficult period at the plate, with only two hits in his last 23 at-bats and 11 strikeouts over six games. Even the best players can have short periods when their timing is poor. Injuries can make this harder because a player may change how he swings, runs, or moves without fully noticing it.
The Dodgers have not placed Ohtani on the injured list. That decision suggests the team believes he may be able to return soon. However, the situation is now more complicated because he has already missed enough time that the club cannot easily make an injured-list move retroactive to cover all the missed games. Teams often have to decide whether a star should rest for a few days or take a longer break. Playing too soon can turn a small problem into a more serious injury.
Ohtani's 2026 season has included strong numbers even with the recent problems. Reuters reported that he is batting .279 with 30 home runs and 80 runs batted in across 133 games. He was also one of the leading pitchers in the National League during the first half of the season. He had an 8-2 record with a 1.79 earned run average in 14 starts. His ability to hit at a high level and also pitch makes him unusual in modern baseball.
His health matters greatly to the Dodgers because the team is trying to reach the postseason in strong form. A long baseball season can place heavy stress on players. Ohtani has an even greater workload because he prepares for both hitting and pitching. The club must think not only about the next game but also about October, when playoff games become more important. Giving a star extra rest in September can sometimes help the team later, even if fans want to see him play immediately.
The story is also important because Ohtani has become a global sports figure. His games are followed closely in Japan, and many fans travel to see him play. His shirts and other products are sold around the world. When he is injured, the news is not only important to Dodgers supporters. It affects television audiences, ticket interest, fantasy sports, and international baseball coverage. His popularity has helped Major League Baseball reach more fans outside North America.
For now, the Dodgers will continue to check how Ohtani feels each day. Roberts has said a Monday return is possible, but the final decision will depend on his recovery. Fans should remember that a possible return date is not a guarantee. Medical and training staff may decide that another day of rest is safer. The most important goal is keeping Ohtani healthy for the rest of the season. If he returns soon and feels strong, the Dodgers will regain one of the most valuable players in the sport at an important time of the year.
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