Ohtani‘s Start Pushed to Monday as Dodgers Catcher Smith Faces Extended absence
LOS ANGELES – Shohei Ohtani’s next pitching appearance for the Los Angeles Dodgers is scheduled for Monday against the Colorado Rockies, after a minor illness sidelined him from his anticipated start Wednesday in Pittsburgh. The delay is intended to ensure the reigning National League MVP is fully recovered before returning to the mound.
ohtani, who did not pitch in 2023 following his second Tommy John surgery, has made 11 starts this season, posting a 1-1 record with a 4.18 ERA. While limited to designated hitter duties Wednesday, Ohtani continues to excel at the plate, currently batting .280 with 46 home runs in 136 games, leading the National League in runs scored (125) and slugging percentage (.610).
The Dodgers are also navigating a potential extended absence for catcher Will Smith, who sustained a bruised right hand after being hit by a foul ball Wednesday. Manager dave Roberts indicated Smith is unlikely to play in the upcoming three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles, beginning Friday.X-rays were negative, but further imaging results from Thursday were pending.
To cover Smith’s absence, the Dodgers recalled veteran catcher Ben Rortvedt from Triple-A Oklahoma City, designating right-hander Alexis Diaz for assignment to create a roster spot. Rookie Dalton Rushing is expected to handle the majority of catching duties during Smith’s recovery. Smith, a three-time All-Star, is batting .296 with 17 home runs in 109 games this season.In addition to the catching situation, third baseman Max Muncy is slated to begin a rehab assignment with Oklahoma City on Thursday night as he recovers from a strained right oblique suffered August 15th.
