New Shohei Ohtani Injury Update Given By Dodgers GM Reveals Star's Status Amid Pitching Absence

Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes believes that Shohei Ohtani will be able to pitch again before the end of the regular season, per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.

"A lot of it, we just need to take our time and see if he comes in feeling good tomorrow, and then OK, what's the next step?" Gomes told Ardaya. "A lot of it is just how he's bouncing back, and do we think it's prudent to keep progressing?"

While Ohtani is still serving as a key piece of Los Angeles' lineup, the two-way star hasn't pitched since July 3 due to left knee issues.

The four-time MVP received a lubricating Orthovisc shot in his knee to help with discomfort during the All-Star break before throwing a bullpen session on July 22.

Ohtani experienced regression in his knee as well as biceps discomfort during the activity, leading to the Dodgers dialing things back regarding his recovery (via Ardaya). He eventually threw another bullpen session on Friday.

Ohtani started 14 games this season prior to the injury, compiling an 8-2 record to go along with a 1.79 ERA and 0.946 WHIP.

The Dodgers can afford to be patient with his health, as they currently hold a 7.5-game lead atop the National League West standings with a 73-49 record while they chase a third consecutive World Series title.

Ohtani has also remained dominant at the plate, racking up 24 doubles, 27 home runs and 74 RBI while hitting .292 across his first 112 games. He also owned a .935 OPS heading into Friday's action.