Dodgers won't rush Ohtani's return to rotation, Roberts says - ESPN

NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani is scheduled to throw another bullpen Saturday at Citi Field, but Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he doesn't expect the two-way superstar to return to the rotation by next week.

«That's too early. I feel very good that it won't be next week,» Roberts said Friday before the opener of a three-game series against the New York Mets.

«Every player wants to get back out there and do what they do. But I think he understands it's not about July, it's about October. So, we've already taken a lot of time to get him back to full health, so we're not going to start earlier than we need to.»

The two-time defending World Series champion Dodgers began the day with the best record in the majors at 65-38 and an 11-game lead in the National League West.

Ohtani hasn't pitched since July 3 because of left knee irritation. But the Dodgers say it doesn't bother him when hitting, and he has remained in the starting lineup regularly.

The designated hitter batted in his usual leadoff spot Friday night against the last-place Mets.

Ohtani received a lubricant injection just before the All-Star break, and Roberts said last weekend it would be «some time» before Ohtani makes his next appearance as a pitcher.

The right-hander then threw about 30 pitches off a mound Wednesday in Philadelphia, and the tentative plan is for him to throw another bullpen Saturday.

«Honestly, I think it's just to be fluid with Shohei. The bullpen went well and today he feels good,» Roberts said. «If tomorrow feels good to throw the pen, great. And if it doesn't, then we'll kick it. I think that's the beauty of where we're at right now. And so, we're not going to push him. There's constant conversation going on each day, but I think