Dodgers Post Argues Shohei Ohtani’s Season-Ending Injury, ‘He’s Done’

The Los Angeles Dodgers have gradually reduced Shohei Ohtani 's workload as his injury problems have continued to mount, creating increasing uncertainty about what the two-way superstar will be able to contribute during the final weeks of the regular season or in the playoffs.

Ohtani has already been dealing with multiple physical issues, and the Dodgers have become increasingly cautious with his pitching responsibilities. The latest development has raised questions about whether the team will ultimately shut him down altogether, even as it continues to leave open the possibility of a postseason return.

"He has battled through multiple physical limitations throughout the year, including left knee inflammation and right biceps soreness that limited him to 14 starts and 85 2/3 innings as a pitcher and has now sidelined him completely," Katie Woo reported for The Athletic . "It is all but official he won't pitch again this season. It is unknown what he'll be able to provide as a hitter."

That uncertainty has fueled even more speculation surrounding Ohtani's status, particularly with the Dodgers seemingly prioritizing his long-term health over his availability during the regular season and perhaps pushing him too far.

Los Angeles Dodgers Superstar Shohei Ohtani Seen As 'Done For The Season'

On the "Dodgers Post," the California's Post's prominent podcast hosted by beat reporters Dylan Hernandez and Jack Harris, a debate over whether Ohtani would return at all this year was raised.

"He's done for the season," Hernandez said on the latest episode . "(The Dodgers) are just pretending he's not. He's done for, like, all intents and purposes."

The Dodgers have demonstrated a willingness to exercise caution with their other prominent pitchers, including Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow . But shutting down Ohtani at this point, as the team pursues its third straight championship, would be a major surprise.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Season Ending Decision Debated

While Hernandez believes Ohtani's regular season could effectively be finished, his co-host argued a more optimistic view of his postseason availability.

"I think it's possible he doesn't play in the regular season," Harris said on the episode. "There's no chance he's not going to play in the playoffs."

For their part, the Dodgers have suggested Ohtani could stay off the mound for the rest of the year, but they haven't indicated he could miss the playoffs. Hernandez, however, warned fans against relying too heavily on the Dodgers' public messaging.

"The Dodgers have proven themselves to be horrible sources of information regarding Ohtani," Hernandez added. "So, don't listen to anything that they say. Use your eyes."

For now, fans' eyes will show a Dodgers star whose workload has steadily diminished as his physical problems have grown.