Ohtani Returns as DH, Pitching Uncertain

Shohei Ohtani was back in the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup as designated hitter on Monday night after dealing with lingering left knee, right biceps and neck soreness. He was in his usual leadoff spot for the series opener against the Cincinnati Reds. cat-cross.com

Manager Dave Roberts said they've 'put a pin in throwing' regarding Ohtani's pitching, indicating it's 'not dead' but there's no timetable for a return. The NL West-leading Dodgers won all four games during Ohtani's absence, including a sweep of the Washington Nationals. Ohtani is hitting .279 with 30 homers and 80 RBIs this season, but his production has dipped to .250 with eight homers and 22 RBIs since the All-Star break.