Dodgers' Ohtani throws in drills amid recovery; Roberts confirms playing status

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts provided an update on Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani's condition ahead of a four-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers, the team with the best record in Major League Baseball. Ohtani, who is currently sidelined from pitching due to a left knee injury, has resumed throwing exercises.

Ohtani participated in a throwing session, extending his range to 40 meters and later throwing a single pitch in the bullpen. While he is not yet cleared to pitch in games, these drills indicate progress in his recovery. Roberts confirmed that Ohtani is expected to play in all four games against the Brewers.

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If we see some different situations, we will consider giving him a rest day. But I won't rest him just for the sake of resting. There will be no rest days during this series.

Roberts also addressed the availability of other "MVP Triple Stars." Mookie Betts is scheduled for a rest day, while Freddie Freeman is expected to sit out the next game. Regarding Ohtani, Roberts stated that while he won't force rest days, the team will monitor his physical condition, especially when they travel to Colorado. He noted that managing Ohtani's throwing load is currently manageable since he is not pitching in games, allowing him to focus on physical conditioning.

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For Shohei, he is certainly not pitching as a pitcher right now. So, the pitching load is not a variable at the moment. I think from a physical standpoint, he is in a state where he can fully manage these loads.