Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani’s potential pitching return date gets massive update

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani hasn’t been on the mound since July 3 as he battles through knee and biceps injuries. However, his return could be coming sooner rather than later.

While manager Dave Roberts didn’t confirm anything, he said Ohtani pitching on Sunday against the Detroit Tigers remains, “a possibility,” via Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic. If he is back in pitching action, that would be a massive boon for Los Angeles.

Still, the Dodgers are going to be cautious. They have their eyes set solely on winning their third-straight World Series title. Having Ohtani on the mound and batter’s box only helps those chances. Because of that, they want him to be as healthy as possible come playoff time.

But if Ohtani is cleared from all injury issues, Roberts plans to throw him. And if everything checks out Sunday, it wouldn’t be shocking to see the reigning MVP finally make his mound return.

Over his 14 starts in 2026, Ohtani holds a 1.79 ERA and a 95/26 K/BB ratio. Those numbers are impressive on their own before you consider his effort at the plate. Ohtani has still been serving as designated hitter despite his injuries, hitting .288 with 30 home runs and 80 RBIs.

If Ohtani wants to make up ground against Chicago Cubs superstar Pete Crow-Armstrong in the MVP race, a successful return to the mound would certainly help. Starting on Sunday would give the right-hander more opportunities to make an impact down the stretch.

Still, the Dodgers’ biggest prerogative remains winning a title, and keeping Ohtani healthy. Roberts will make his decision on Sunday, and moving forward with those two things in mind.

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