Shohei Ohtani Likely to Return to Mound During Dodgers' Next Homestand

Shohei Ohtani is likely to return to pitching during the Dodgers' next homestand, per MLB.com's Sonja Chen — the clearest signal yet that his mound absence is nearing its end.

The report stops short of naming a specific date or opponent, so the exact start remains unconfirmed. What it does establish is a probable window: the next homestand.

What we don't know yet

No official announcement has been made regarding a roster move, a specific game, or a slot in the rotation. The report carries a confidence level that reflects the "likely" framing — meaningful, but not a done deal.

The broader picture

Ohtani has been away from pitching since July 3 due to knee inflammation and a bicep issue, per earlier reporting. His return would arrive at a moment when the Dodgers are already reloading on the mound — Tyler Glasnow was set to return to the rotation from the 60-day IL as soon as Tuesday after missing more than three months with a back injury, per prior Posterior coverage.

Los Angeles has also been navigating the absence of center fielder Andy Pages, who fractured his left hand after being hit by a pitch and is expected to miss at least four weeks, per manager Dave Roberts.

Ohtani's pitching return, whenever it comes, would be the most significant roster development of the group. Watch for a formal announcement as the homestand approaches.