Shohei Ohtani Returns Monday as DH; Likely Done Pitching for 2026

After missing four games due to knee and biceps issues, Shohei Ohtani is set to return to the Dodgers' lineup as the designated hitter for Monday's game against the Reds, per manager Dave Roberts. Ohtani nearly appeared in Sunday's contest, fully prepared with his gear, but ultimately sat out. While his offensive return is imminent, reports indicate it is increasingly likely that Ohtani will not pitch again for the remainder of the 2026 season, transitioning to a one-way player.