Shohei Ohtani Returns from IL as Dodgers Scramble for Playoff Form

Shohei Ohtani will return from the injured list on Wednesday, with the Dodgers making key roster moves to prepare for the final stretch of the season. Manager Dave Roberts discusses lineup options, pitching rotation, and bullpen roles as the team seeks to secure a playoff spot.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 23 Sep 2026 10:14:21 GMT

The Los Angeles Dodgers are racing against time as the regular season nears its end, with less than a week left to lock in a lineup that can carry them into the postseason. On Tuesday, manager Dave Roberts confirmed that star pitcher‑hitter Shohei Ohtani will be reinstated from the 15‑day injured list on Wednesday, a move that could shift the team’s offensive and defensive strategy.

Ohtani’s Return and the Team’s Immediate Needs

Roberts told reporters that Ohtani feels "considerably" better than before his IL stint. "If he was a five, he’s probably an eight or a nine right now," Roberts said, indicating the player’s confidence and readiness to contribute. Ohtani has been a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ offense, leading the lineup in every game he has started this season. However, the manager is weighing whether to keep him at the top of the order or move him to a spot that could better accommodate the strengths of other key players.

Alongside Ohtani’s return, the Dodgers also reinstated center fielder Andy Pages, who had a fractured left hand, and right‑hander Roki Sasaki, who suffered a blister on his right middle finger. In a corresponding move, the club optioned right‑hander Emmet Sheehan and catcher Eliézer Alfonzo to Triple‑A Oklahoma City, freeing up roster spots for the players who will be available for the final games.

Lineup Considerations: Mookie Betts vs. Ohtani

One of the immediate questions for Roberts is where to place Ohtani in the batting order. Traditionally, Ohtani has opened the lineup, but the manager is also considering Mookie Betts, especially against left‑handed pitching. "Certainly versus right‑handed pitching Ohtani will be there," Roberts said. "I do think I should think through the Mookie versus left situation, but I have to think about the entire lineup structure."

Betts has been a reliable leadoff hitter in previous seasons, and his presence at the top of the order could provide a steady start against lefty starters. However, Ohtani’s power and speed make him a formidable leadoff threat, and the decision will likely hinge on match‑ups and the health of the pitching staff.

Pitching Rotation and Bullpen Strategy

The Dodgers’ rotation is also in flux. Left‑hander Blake Snell, who exited a start last week with left groin tightness, will pitch a bullpen outing on Tuesday and is scheduled for a final regular‑season start on Saturday. Roberts has lined up the four projected playoff starters for the last four games: Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow will face the Padres on Saturday, while Tarik Skubal and Snell will start the first two games in San Francisco.

When it comes to the closer role, Roberts admits there is no single person in that position. "In a perfect world, I would love a set closer," he said. "But if there’s an opportunity for Tanner Scott to pitch a high‑leverage inning, it’s hard to pass that up if he’s the best option right there." Roki Sasaki, who filled the closer role last year, may be an option depending on his performance coming off the IL.

Bench Depth and Future Roster Moves

The Dodgers are also evaluating bench depth, particularly the left‑handed bat off the bench for the postseason. Rookie Josue De Paula and injured catcher Dalton Rushing are in the mix, with De Paula currently holding the edge due to Rushing’s ongoing injury. The team may need to make another roster move later in the week to activate Rushing, which could involve optioning a player to make room for him on the National League Division Series roster.

These roster adjustments underscore the Dodgers’ urgency to finalize a lineup that can compete at the highest level. The team’s focus remains on securing a playoff spot while ensuring that key players are healthy and positioned for optimal performance.

As the Dodgers head into the final stretch, the decisions made in the next few days will be crucial. Whether Ohtani returns to the top of the order, how the bullpen is utilized, and which players are available for the postseason will all play a role in determining the team’s success in the race for the playoffs.

What’s Next for the Dodgers?

The Dodgers will continue to monitor player health and make strategic roster moves as they approach the end of the regular season. With the playoffs looming, every decision—from lineup construction to bullpen assignments—will be scrutinized by fans and analysts alike. The team’s ability to adapt and optimize its roster will be key to securing a spot in the postseason and setting the stage for a deep run.

Key facts

Shohei Ohtani to return from IL on Wednesday
Manager Dave Roberts weighing lineup options between Ohtani and Mookie Betts
Rotation includes Yamamoto, Glasnow, Skubal, and Snell for final games
Closer role remains flexible, with potential use of Tanner Scott and Roki Sasaki
Bench depth concerns involve Josue De Paula and Dalton Rushing

Why it matters

Ohtani’s return could shift the Dodgers’ offensive dynamics, while the team’s final roster decisions will determine its playoff viability and overall competitiveness.