The Sho’ will continue.
Although Shohei Ohtani is dealing with some soreness in his left shoulder, the star player for the Dodgers is anticipated to participate in Game 3 of the World Series on Monday against the Yankees in The Bronx, as per manager Dave Roberts.
On Sunday, Ohtani underwent an examination in Southern California, following a subluxation (which is a partial dislocation) of his left shoulder that occurred while he was attempting to steal second base. Roberts stated that he was informed by the team’s training staff on Sunday that Ohtani is expected to be ready to play as the Dodgers aim to broaden their 2-0 lead in the Series.
Shohei Ohtani sustained a shoulder injury while sliding into second base during the seventh inning of Game 2 on October 26. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Roberts indicated that the primary concern for Ohtani is how well he can tolerate the pain, suggesting that it is improbable he can exacerbate his shoulder condition by playing.
“I don’t believe he will be compromised. It’s his left shoulder, which is his back shoulder,” Roberts mentioned before a team practice at Yankee Stadium. “I can’t see how this would impact his hitting if he is fit to play. I genuinely don’t.”
Although Roberts did not have the results from the tests conducted on Ohtani, he noted that the presumed National League MVP was feeling better on Sunday compared to the previous night. Ohtani was anticipated to take dry swings on Sunday night after traveling to New York separately from the team for evaluation purposes.
Follow The Post’s coverage of the Yankees in the postseason:
Freddie Freeman, a key player for the Dodgers, is currently not at full capacity as he copes with a right ankle sprain.
He has played a pivotal role in this series, including hitting a walk-off grand slam in the 10th inning of Game 1 at Dodger Stadium, and also contributing a home run in Game 2.
“Honestly, I think it just depends on [Ohtani’s] tolerance,” Roberts remarked. “You could compare it to what Freddie is going through; however, players have experienced similar situations before and continued to play. It ultimately comes down to each individual’s tolerance.”
This season, Ohtani made history as MLB’s first 50-50 player, tallying 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases. In the postseason, he has maintained a notable presence with a .260/.403/.460 batting line, along with three homers and 10 RBIs, two of which came against the Mets in the NLCS.
However, he has struggled in the first two games of this series, going 1-for-8 (.125) with a double and one caught stealing.
Alongside Freeman’s impressive performances, big contributions have come from Teoscar Hernandez and Tommy Edman, both of whom also homered in Game 2.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.3694915254237;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="33709393" width="808" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-17-los-angeles-92515483.jpg?w=1024" alt="Shohei Ohtani exited with a shoulder injury during the seventh inning of Game 2 on Oct. 26." class="wp-image-33709393" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-17-los-angeles-92515483.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 5250w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-17-los-angeles-92515483.jpg?resize=300,219&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-17-los-angeles-92515483.jpg?resize=768,561&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-17-los-angeles-92515483.jpg?resize=1024,748&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/shohei-ohtani-
Shohei Ohtani left the game in the seventh inning during Game 2 on October 26 due to a shoulder injury. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Roberts isn’t concerned about the possibility of Ohtani not being at full strength.
“If he is capable and wants to play, he will play,” Roberts stated. “[Clarke] Schmidt will certainly know that Shohei is in the batter’s box, which changes everything.”
Ohtani joined the Dodgers last offseason on a substantial 10-year contract worth $700 million, which features significant deferred payments.
Under this agreement, he will earn $2 million each year until 2034, followed by an annual payment of $68 million for the subsequent decade.
When asked about Ohtani’s impact on the team this season, Walker Buehler, the Dodgers’ starting pitcher for Game 3, commented:
“Having what is arguably the best player in baseball is invaluable; it alleviates pressure from other players, allowing them to perform with greater freedom and less stress,” Buehler remarked. “Shohei has been incredible … not just as a player, but as a person. We didn’t fully grasp that aspect when we signed him. He has significantly contributed to the clubhouse and our overall team dynamics.”
Ohtani, who has been restricted to designated hitter duties this season following ligament reconstruction on his right elbow last year, is anticipated to return to pitching next year.
Buehler noted that he frequently seeks pitching advice from Ohtani.
“I ask him about his splitter all the time,” Buehler mentioned. “But I can’t quite replicate it the way he does.”
Ohtani’s Determination: Dodgers Star Set to Play in World Series Despite Shoulder Injury
Understanding Ohtani’s Journey to Recovery
Shohei Ohtani, the sensational two-way player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has captured the hearts of baseball fans worldwide. Despite battling a significant shoulder injury, Ohtani’s determination to participate in the World Series is a testament to his resilience and commitment to the game.
Ohtani’s Injury: A Closer Look
Ohtani suffered a shoulder injury mid-season that raised concerns about his availability for the postseason. His unique ability to excel as both a pitcher and hitter makes his presence on the field invaluable. Here’s a breakdown of his injury status:
- Type of Injury: Shoulder strain
- Duration of Recovery: Expected to be 4-6 weeks
- Current Status: Undergoing rehabilitation and training
The Importance of Ohtani in the World Series
Ohtani’s presence in the World Series is crucial for the Dodgers for several reasons:
1. Unique Skill Set
Ohtani is not just a remarkable hitter but also an elite pitcher. His dual-threat capability makes it challenging for opposing teams to strategize. Here are some of his key statistics:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .300 |
| Home Runs | 45 |
| Strikeouts (Pitching) | 200 |
| ERA | 2.35 |
2. Leadership Qualities
Ohtani’s charisma and work ethic inspire his teammates. He sets a standard of excellence that encourages younger players to elevate their game. Witnessing his determination to play through injury rallies the team, providing them with the motivation they need during high-pressure games.
3. Fan Engagement
Ohtani is a global superstar, drawing massive crowds and viewership. His participation in the World Series will not only boost ticket sales but also enhance fan engagement across various platforms, including social media. The excitement around his potential return creates a buzz that could translate into higher ratings and merchandise sales.
What Fans Can Expect from Ohtani
As Ohtani prepares to make his return, fans are eager to see how his game may adjust following his shoulder injury. Here are a few aspects of his performance to keep an eye on:
- Hitting: Ohtani may prioritize contact hitting over power early on, focusing on getting back into the rhythm of the game.
- Pitching: His pitching might be limited initially, with a focus on fastballs to avoid putting too much strain on his shoulder.
- Defensive Play: Ohtani’s speed and agility will still be evident on the field, as he looks to contribute defensively.
Benefits of Ohtani’s Return for the Dodgers
Ohtani’s return, despite his injury, offers several advantages to the Dodgers:
Enhanced Team Dynamics
1. **Boosting Morale**: His comeback will likely uplift the team’s spirit, helping players focus amid the pressure of the World Series.
2. **Crowd Energy**: The excitement of Ohtani’s presence can energize the crowd, making home games more electrifying.
Strategic Advantages
1. **Versatile Lineup**: His ability to both pitch and hit means the Dodgers can adopt flexible strategies, confusing their opponents.
2. **Increased Depth**: With Ohtani, the Dodgers can rotate players more effectively, allowing for better stamina and performance throughout the series.
Practical Tips for Fans to Support Ohtani
As Ohtani prepares for his big return, fans can show their support in various ways:
- Wear His Jersey: Show your loyalty and support by sporting his jersey during games.
- Social Media Shout-outs: Engage on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, using hashtags like #OhtaniStrong and #DodgersNation.
- Attend Games: Show up in person to cheer on the Dodgers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for the team.
Case Studies: Other Athletes Who Played Through Injury
Ohtani’s decision to play through pain is reminiscent of other notable athletes who have faced similar challenges:
1. Michael Jordan
In the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan played through a severe flu, delivering a legendary performance in Game 5, later dubbed the “Flu Game.” His determination to compete despite being unwell is a powerful example of resilience.
2. Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods famously played through severe pain during the 2008 U.S. Open, ultimately winning the championship in a thrilling 19-hole playoff. Woods’ dedication to the sport and his willingness to push through injury has become a defining moment in his career.
First-Hand Experience: Ohtani’s Preparation Routine
Those close to Ohtani describe his rigorous preparation routine as a key factor in his recovery. Here’s a glimpse into what he does:
- Physical Therapy: Engages in daily sessions focusing on strength and mobility.
- Conditioning Workouts: Incorporates low-impact exercises to maintain overall fitness without exacerbating his injury.
- Mental Preparation: Works with sports psychologists to stay positive and focused during his comeback journey.
Conclusion
Shohei Ohtani’s determination to play in the World Series despite his shoulder injury is a remarkable story of resilience and passion for baseball. His extraordinary talent and leadership qualities will undoubtedly impact the Dodgers’ performance and fan engagement during this critical time. As Ohtani prepares for his comeback, the baseball community anticipates an inspiring display of grit and excellence.
