Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani sustained a left shoulder injury during Game 2 of the World Series, which ended in a 4-2 victory over the New York Yankees. The injury occurred when Ohtani attempted to steal second base in the seventh inning and was subsequently thrown out, remaining on the ground in pain. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts provided an update after the game, revealing that Ohtani suffered a left shoulder subluxation.
“The strength was great. The range of motion, good. So, we’re encouraged. But obviously, I can’t speculate because we don’t get the scans yet. So, once we get the scans, we’ll know more. Again, with the strength and range of motion looking good, that’s certainly a positive," Roberts told media
Roberts expressed concern when Ohtani was on the field, stating, “Obviously, when you get any one of your players that goes down, it’s concerning. But after kind of the range of motion and the strength test, I felt much better about it.”
During the broadcast, microphones caught a conversation between Ohtani and trainers, indicating that his left shoulder appeared to have popped out of its socket.
Ohtani's first appearance
This postseason marks Ohtani's first appearance in the playoffs, having missed out during his six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels. Before his injury, he had an outstanding run, hitting his 50th home run and stealing his 50th base just days prior. By the end of the game against the Yankees, he had achieved his 51st in each category.
Despite his remarkable debut season with the Dodgers, Ohtani has faced physical challenges. He underwent elbow surgery in September 2023 and was advised he likely wouldn’t pitch again until 2025. Nevertheless, he remains a frontrunner for the NL MVP award, potentially becoming the first player to win while only serving as a designated hitter.
Ohtani has been diligently working on his rehabilitation, even throwing off a mound in practice last month for the first time since his surgery, raising hopes he might pitch in the playoffs. However, Roberts dismissed those rumors, saying there is “no possibility” of Ohtani pitching in the playoffs: “None whatsoever.”
As the series heads to New York for Game 3 on Monday, Roberts expressed optimism about Ohtani’s availability. “I’m expecting him to be there. I’m expecting him to be in the lineup,” he said, reflecting the team’s hopes for a swift recovery.
World Series schedule, results & reports
Game 1: Dodgers 6-3 Yankees
Game 2: Dodgers 4-2 Yankees
Game 3 (in New York): Monday, 28 October
Game 4 (in New York): Tuesday, 29 October
Game 5* (in New York): Wednesday, 30 October
Game 6* (in LA): Friday, 1 November
Game 7* (in LA): Saturday, 2 November
*if required. Matches start 20:08 Eastern Time (early next morning UK time). Home team listed first.
