Shohei Ohtani May Miss Friday, Dodgers Ready to Pivot

**Shohei Ohtani** could sit out the Dodgers’ Friday night start against the Arizona Diamondbacks on **July 5, 2026**, prompting Los Angeles to reshuffle its rotation and bullpen plans.

The Dodgers entered the series with Ohtani slated to pitch the first game, but a lingering shoulder concern has the club on standby. Manager Dave Roberts told reporters the team has a contingency plan if the two‑way star cannot take the mound. The plan involves moving **Gavin Stone** into the rotation and using **Luis Urías** in a long relief role.

If Ohtani is sidelined, Stone will start at **Dodger Stadium** and aim to give the bullpen a breather. Meanwhile, **Freddie Freeman** and **Mookie Betts** remain in the everyday lineup, preserving the offensive punch Ohtani usually provides. The bullpen, anchored by **Kenley Jansen**, will be tasked with covering the later innings, especially if the game turns into a high‑scoring affair.

Ohtani’s dual threat as a pitcher and slugger has been a linchpin for Los Angeles this season. He’s logged a **5.12 ERA** and hit **12 home runs** through 28 games. Losing his arm would not only thin the rotation but also strip the lineup of a middle‑order power bat. The Diamondbacks, who sit **two games behind** in the NL West, could exploit any dip in the Dodgers’ firepower.

Roberts said the medical staff will evaluate Ohtani during the morning workout. If he’s cleared, he will take the mound as planned; if not, Stone’s start will be announced before the first pitch. The Dodgers also hinted at a possible **designated‑hitter** slot for Ohtani later in the series, keeping his bat in the game even if his arm rests.

A loss on Friday could tighten the NL West race, with the Diamondbacks eyeing a surge. The Dodgers, currently **10 games over .500**, cannot afford a slip‑up if they hope to clinch the division by season’s end. Ohtani’s availability will likely influence not just this series but the playoff picture as well.

Arizona’s manager **Mickey Callaway** noted that the Diamondbacks are prepared for any lineup change, emphasizing their depth in the bullpen. He added that the team will focus on **early runs**, knowing the Dodgers might lean on a shortened rotation.

The outcome of Friday’s game will set the tone for the rest of the series. Whether Ohtani pitches or not, the Dodgers are poised to adapt, keeping their eyes on the postseason horizon.