Shohei Ohtani Faces Injury Setback, May Not Pitch and Hit Entire Career

Shohei Ohtani's career as a two-way player may be in jeopardy due to injury concerns. On July 4, 2026, ESPN reporter Buster Olney stated that Ohtani won't be able to continue as both a hitter and pitcher in the league.

Ohtani is dealing with a biceps problem, which he felt during a game against the San Diego Padres on Friday. He has also had leg and blister issues in the past.

The Dodgers expect Ohtani to be ready to play again on July 5. "He's a quick healer, and finds a way to get back," said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

Olney's comments suggest that Ohtani's body may not be able to handle the toll of being a two-way player. "It's really difficult to manage both the hitting and the pitching at the same time," Olney said.

Ohtani has a 1.79 ERA as a pitcher this season, with eight victories in 14 starts. His performance has been impressive, but the injury concerns may impact his future as a two-way player.

The Dodgers will need to decide how to manage Ohtani's workload to prevent further injuries. "But I do think that for us to read and react and hear what his body is telling him is really important," Roberts said.

The team is currently first in the National League West, with a 58-31 record. They play the Padres again on Saturday, and Ohtani's status will be closely monitored.

Ohtani's injury is a concern for the Dodgers, but they are confident in his ability to recover quickly. "He's a quick healer," Roberts said, and the team will be cautious in their approach to managing his workload.

The Dodgers' performance this season has been impressive, and they will look to continue their winning streak. Ohtani's contribution to the team has been significant, and his health will be a key factor in their success.

As the season progresses, the Dodgers will need to balance Ohtani's workload with the need to keep him healthy. It's a challenging task, but one that the team is committed to managing effectively.

Ohtani's future as a two-way player is uncertain, but one thing is clear: his health and well-being are the top priority for the Dodgers. The team will do everything in their power to support him and ensure that he can continue to perform at a high level.