Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani exits with knee inflammation

PITTSBURGH: Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani was taken out of Thursday’s 8–6 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates in the seventh inning as a precaution after experiencing left knee inflammation.

Manager Dave Roberts played down concerns over the issue, stressing that the decision was made to avoid any unnecessary risk to the reigning National League Most Valuable Player.

Roberts explained that Ohtani mentioned feeling discomfort behind his knee, prompting the Dodgers to remove him from the game early.

“We tried to be smart about it and get him out of the game,” Roberts said. “He told the trainer that he felt a little something behind his knee and I just didn't see any sense in risking it.”

The manager remains optimistic that Ohtani will be available for Friday night’s clash against the Chicago White Sox, which opens a three-game series between two division leaders.

Despite the precautionary substitution, Ohtani still made a strong impact in the game. He hit his 13th home run of the season in the third inning, a solo shot, and also contributed a single and two walks, reaching base in all four of his plate appearances.

Ohtani was not made available to the media after the game.

He is currently batting .305 with 40 RBIs, while also excelling on the mound with a 6–2 record, a 1.06 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 67 2/3 innings.

It is pertinent to mention that starting pitcher Justin Wrobleski also left the game in the fifth inning with a left hamstring contusion.