Ohtani Injury: In a shocking turn of events, Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani sustained an injury to his left shoulder during Game 2 of the World Series on Saturday night against the New York Yankees. The incident occurred when Ohtani, attempting to steal second base in the bottom of the seventh inning, slid feet-first into the bag and appeared to be in significant pain immediately after. Ohtani stayed on the ground, clutching his left arm, as an athletic trainer assisted him off the field, sending a ripple of concern through Dodger Stadium.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts provided an update after the game, confirming that Ohtani had suffered a “subluxation” — a partial dislocation of his shoulder — and will undergo further testing, including an MRI. Despite the setback, Roberts noted that Ohtani’s initial assessments were promising, with his range of motion and strength intact. “The strength was great, the range of motion is good, so we’re encouraged,” Roberts stated. However, he acknowledged that further tests are essential before determining Ohtani’s availability for the remainder of the World Series.
When asked if he expects Ohtani to miss upcoming games, Roberts remained cautiously optimistic: “I’m expecting him to be there. I’m expecting him to be in the lineup,” he said, underscoring Ohtani’s critical role in the Dodgers’ offense.
This injury casts uncertainty over Ohtani’s potential return in the series. Game 3, scheduled for Monday in New York, could see the Dodgers missing one of baseball’s most versatile and impactful players. The Dodgers lead the series 2-0 after securing a 4-2 win in Game 2, but the loss of Ohtani would undoubtedly be a major blow to their lineup as they attempt to capture the championship.
Ohtani, 30, has had a historic season, marking the first-ever 50-50 season in Major League Baseball with over 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, a feat that cements his candidacy for the National League MVP. His 2024 performance includes a .310 batting average, 54 home runs, and an impressive 59 steals on 63 attempts. Unfortunately, this injury marks yet another setback for Ohtani, who has not pitched this season due to a previous elbow surgery on his throwing arm. He is expected to resume pitching in 2025.
As Ohtani undergoes testing and Dodgers fans hold their breath, his absence, if prolonged, could shift the dynamics of the World Series.
