Shohei Ohtani Welcomes Second Child

Shohei Ohtani, a key player for the Dodgers, was away from the team on Friday to be with his family for the birth of his second child. This absence occurred during the series opener against the Orioles. Despite his absence, the Dodgers chose not to place him on the paternity list, temporarily reducing their active player count.

The Dodgers expect Ohtani to return by the weekend. He last pitched on Wednesday, making a return convenient well before his next pitching rotation. Without Ohtani, rookie Ryan Ward assumed the designated hitter role on Friday, batting seventh. Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker stepped into the leadoff spot usually occupied by Ohtani.

Ohtani has been performing remarkably, boasting the second-highest OPS in the National League at .962. His pitching stats are equally impressive, having a 1.47 ERA, making him second among NL pitchers with a minimum of 50 innings pitched. Recently, he has been managing a blister on his pitching hand and has also dealt with inflammation in his left knee.

Will Smith’s Neck Injury Update

The Dodgers’ catcher Will Smith is addressing his neck injury with an injection. Although recent imaging showed nothing alarming, he was previously diagnosed with an inflamed disk. Smith will remain on the injured list for more than the minimum period. His return is uncertain, and he might miss the forthcoming trip to Minnesota.

Edwin Díaz’s Rehabilitation Progress

Closer Edwin Díaz is making progress following elbow surgery by moving to mound activities. On Friday, Díaz completed a 15-pitch bullpen session, throwing fastballs at 91-93 mph. The Dodgers originally planned for a post-All-Star break return for Díaz, emphasizing a cautious approach to his recovery.

Additional Injury Updates

Left fielder Teoscar Hernández, dealing with a strained hamstring, is likely to start a minor-league rehab assignment next week. Additionally, left-hander Blake Snell is advancing in his throwing program after elbow surgery and is nearing mound work.