Shohei Ohtani took another step toward returning to the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup Saturday, participating in base-running drills and simulated at-bats at Dodger Stadium.

Ohtani has been on the 15-day injured list with knee and biceps injuries. His return would give the Dodgers another major offensive option as they prepare for the postseason, and Saturday’s workout provided an encouraging update.

California Post’s Jack Harris recently reported the development in the Japanese phenom’s road to recovery.

According to Harris, Ohtani ran the bases during batting practice before taking simulated at-bats against the Trajekt Arc pitching machine. Dodgers hitting coach Aaron Bates also said Ohtani was swinging at full intensity and looked less limited than he had before going on the injured list.

The Dodgers backdated Ohtani’s IL stint to September 8, making him eligible to return Wednesday against the San Diego Padres. Los Angeles has not said whether it will activate him immediately, but his latest workout puts him closer to a return.

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Ohtani was putting together another productive season before the injury. He was batting .277 with 30 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases while also going 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts as a pitcher.

His return would be particularly important with the regular season nearing its end. Ohtani needs to regain his timing at the plate while also making sure his knee is ready for the demands of running the bases.

The Dodgers will face the Padres in a three-game series beginning Tuesday, with Wednesday’s finale marking Ohtani’s first potential activation date.

Whether he returns that day or needs more time, Los Angeles will continue monitoring his progress as October approaches.