Depending on how well he recovers from his recent left shoulder subluxation, Shohei Ohtani might make a comeback for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 of the World Series. Ohtani suffered the injury in Game 2 while trying a stolen base, and manager Dave Roberts revealed on Sunday that his ability to bear discomfort will determine if he can play.
When Ohtani sustained his injury in the seventh inning of Saturday night’s game, there was instant anxiety because he was still in pain. Teoscar Hernandez, an outfielder, remarked, “The whole stadium went silent,” highlighting the shock experienced by both players and fans.
Roberts was upbeat on Sunday, stating that he expects Ohtani to play against the Yankees in New York on Monday night if he feels well enough. Roberts said, “If (Ohtani) gets ready to go, I see no reason he won’t be in there,” implying that Ohtani is an important member of the team.
Following his medical examination in Los Angeles, Ohtani took a flight to New York alone from the rest of the squad. Ohtani’s pre-game routine, which includes indoor batting practice and swinging off a tee, would be a good way to gauge his level of preparedness, Roberts said. Ohtani is very aware of his own body and will know if he can perform, Roberts said.
Additionally, Roberts likened Ohtani’s injury to that of Cody Bellinger, a former Dodgers outfielder who dislocated his shoulder during a postseason celebration in 2020. Roberts said Ohtani might be in a slightly better position because his injury affected his left shoulder, whereas Bellinger’s right shoulder, which is subjected to more strain for left-handed hitters, while Bellinger continued to play through the pain.
Given Ohtani’s solid reputation and capacity to influence the dynamics of the game, Roberts is unconcerned about his possible limitations if he makes a comeback. He went on to say that Ohtani’s presence in the lineup would undoubtedly affect Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt, saying, “Schmidt will know that Shohei’s in the box, so that means everything.”
Games three, four, and potentially five of the Dodgers’ 2-0 lead in the World Series will be played at Yankee Stadium. As they try to increase their lead, Ohtani’s presence might offer a psychological and physical edge.
Ohtani, who was signed for $700 million, has had an incredible season, setting a new record by being the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. With three home runs, ten RBIs, and an OPS of.863 over 13 games, he has performed admirably during the Dodgers’ postseason run and is predicted to win the National League MVP award.
Despite having a sluggish start in the World Series, going 1-for-8 in the first two games against the Yankees, the 30-year-old has made a huge contribution to the Dodgers’ success while playing in his first playoffs.
Even if Ohtani isn’t playing at full capacity, Roberts is still optimistic that his presence will help the Dodgers gain ground. In addition to motivating his teammates, his inclusion in the lineup would make things more difficult for the Yankees.
Ohtani’s health and pain threshold will determine his availability as he gets ready for a crucial match. His performance in New York could be crucial to the Dodgers’ chances of winning the World Series, so they are hopeful he will play.
Fans and teammates alike are eager to watch how Ohtani responds to the challenge if he plays because his comeback may be a turning point in the series.
