Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani was removed from Thursday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates due to left knee inflammation, raising immediate concern among fans. However, manager Dave Roberts moved quickly to calm worries, stating that the concern level “is not high.”

What Happened to Shohei Ohtani?

Ohtani, who was 2-for-2 with a home run before exiting, left the game in the 7th inning after appearing to feel discomfort following a stolen base attempt. The Dodgers took a cautious approach and removed the two-way phenom as a precautionary measure.

The incident occurred during the Dodgers’ 8-6 victory over the Pirates on June 12, 2026. Despite the early exit, Ohtani’s powerful performance earlier in the game once again highlighted why he remains one of the most dangerous players in Major League Baseball.

Dave Roberts Provides Optimistic Update

Speaking after the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts downplayed the severity of the injury:

“Concern level is not high. We’re being smart with him. We expect him to be available for tomorrow.”

Roberts emphasized that the move was precautionary and that Ohtani felt good enough that the team is optimistic he will return to the lineup as soon as Friday.

Impact on the Dodgers and MLB 2026 Season

This is not the first time Ohtani has dealt with minor physical issues in 2026, but the two-time MVP has consistently shown remarkable durability and resilience. With the Dodgers currently battling for the top spot in the NL West, keeping their franchise cornerstone healthy remains a top priority.

Ohtani’s presence in the lineup — both as a hitter and potential pitcher later in the season — is critical for Los Angeles’ postseason ambitions.

What’s Next for Shohei Ohtani?

As of now, there is no indication that Ohtani will miss significant time. The Dodgers are expected to provide another update on his status before Friday’s game. Fans will be watching closely to see if the Japanese superstar returns to the field immediately or receives a day of rest.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on Shohei Ohtani’s condition and the Dodgers’ upcoming schedule.