Dodgers fans held their breath when Shohei Ohtani was spotted wearing a sling on his left arm before Game 3 of the World Series, but the two-way superstar was quick to offer some hope. Despite a shoulder injury suffered while stealing second base in Game 2, Ohtani told reporters that he doesn’t anticipate needing surgery.
“I haven’t had further conversations about the future plan,” Ohtani shared through his translator. “I think it’s something that’s going to happen after the season is over, do additional testing. But in terms of how I feel now, I don’t think so.”
The incident unfolded in dramatic fashion, with Ohtani lying on the field in visible discomfort after his left shoulder appeared to pop out during his slide. Still, he assured fans that the pain has since diminished. The injury came as Ohtani continues to ease back into pitching after his second Tommy John surgery in 2023—a hopeful sign since the shoulder in question is his non-throwing arm.
Ohtani’s World Series Struggles Continue
Though Ohtani’s presence in the lineup remains a big advantage for the Dodgers, his performance has been less than his usual stellar standard. In 13 World Series plate appearances, the 30-year-old slugger has just one double, two walks, and two runs while accumulating 20 postseason strikeouts.
Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman has stepped up in Ohtani’s stead, hitting his third home run in Game 3 and maintaining a powerful postseason presence. Freeman’s streak has brought him within reach of a World Series home-run record, and with another homer in Game 4, he could surpass George Springer’s record for consecutive World Series games with a home run.
Looking Ahead: Dodgers vs. Yankees in Game 4
As the Dodgers aim to close in on a World Series title, the Yankees will start Luis Gil for Game 4, while Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has yet to announce his starting pitcher.
