CNN —
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, a sensation in the baseball world, is anticipated to make a crucial appearance in World Series Game 3, as confirmed by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts during a press conference on Sunday.
Roberts emphasized to reporters that the final decision on Ohtani’s participation hinges largely on his capacity to endure the ongoing pain from the left shoulder subluxation he suffered during Game 2 of the World Series on Saturday night. This pivotal moment could influence the outcome of the championship series.
“If he feels good enough to go, I see no reason why he wouldn’t be in there,” Roberts stated during his address at Yankee Stadium, the venue for the critical Game 3 set to take place on Monday, highlighting the high stakes of the situation.
On Sunday evening, Roberts revealed that Ohtani would be at Yankee Stadium to undergo tests on his injured shoulder, demonstrating the team’s proactive approach towards his recovery and readiness for the game.
Ohtani sustained the injury during a risky stolen base attempt in the Dodgers’ hard-fought 4-2 victory over the New York Yankees in Game 2, a triumph that positioned Los Angeles ahead two games to none in the best-of-seven series.
According to the FOX broadcast, microphones captured a concerning exchange between Ohtani and trainers, indicating that his left shoulder seemed to have dislocated during the game, amplifying the urgency of his situation.
The ongoing postseason marks a historic moment for Ohtani, as it signifies his first-time participation in the MLB playoffs after being sidelined during his six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, turning this appearance into a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Though Ohtani has enjoyed an extraordinary first season with the Dodgers, the talented 30-year-old has contended with various physical challenges that could impact his performance and longevity in the sport.
After undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, exactly one year after he made history by joining the 50-50 club, Ohtani was informed that he would likely remain unable to pitch until 2025, which considerably lowers his effectiveness as a two-way star renowned for his versatility.
Even though Ohtani has shifted his focus away from pitching, he is still a frontrunner for the NL MVP award, potentially becoming the first player to earn this honor while exclusively functioning as a designated hitter, further solidifying his remarkable legacy.
Demonstrating commendable determination, Ohtani has dedicated time to rehabilitate his elbow, even managing to throw off a mound during practice last month for the first time since his surgery, igniting speculation and excitement about the prospect of him pitching in the playoffs.
Roberts, however, quelled the enthusiasm surrounding this idea, asserting to reporters before Game 1 that there is “no possibility” of Ohtani taking the mound during the playoffs, reiterating his commitment to Ohtani’s health and well-being.
This story has been updated with additional information.