Superstar Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers has been placed on the injured list, sparking concerns and speculation about the extent of his physical condition and the future of his unprecedented two-way career. American sports media outlets have raised questions, suggesting that the extent of his current injuries may not be fully disclosed, given his typically private nature.
Ohtani Placed on Injured List Amid Injury Concerns
Ohtani was officially added to the 15-day injured list on September 12th, having been sidelined for six of the final seven games of the regular season. While a return for the final stretch of the season was initially anticipated due to a projected return date of September 9th, the reality of his injury status has cast a shadow over the Dodgers’ late-season performance.
The delay in the Dodgers’ response and the subsequent placement on the injured list have drawn criticism. A prevailing sentiment among some observers is that Ohtani may have downplayed or concealed the severity of his injury. This perspective is gaining traction, leading to speculation that his dual role as a pitcher and hitter might be nearing its end.
Skepticism Mounts Over Ohtani’s Injury Disclosure
Sports media outlet ‘The Athletic’ highlighted these concerns, noting, “Ohtani is currently on the injured list. Given Ohtani’s characteristic privacy, it’s possible that other undisclosed ailments exist.” This points to a broader unease regarding the transparency surrounding Ohtani’s physical state.
The Athletic further elaborated on the challenges Ohtani faces, stating, “Ohtani’s career as a player has been a testament to defying expectations. When people said something was impossible, Ohtani made it happen. However, time waits for no one.” This sentiment underscores the physical toll that maintaining a two-way role at the highest level of baseball inevitably takes, especially as a player ages.
The Physical Toll of a Two-Way Career
Ohtani had previously halted his pitching duties after July 4th, following a start against the San Diego Padres. The Athletic’s analysis suggests that while Ohtani may still be considered the world’s best pitcher, the demands of pitching and hitting simultaneously have become significantly more challenging at age 32 compared to when he was 27. The projection is that sustaining a full-time two-way role into his mid-to-late thirties could become increasingly difficult.
The disclosed injuries affecting Ohtani are to his left elbow and right oblique. However, The Athletic expressed deeper worries, “There may be other injuries, and Ohtani’s physical condition is quite poor. No one within the Dodgers organization is happy about this situation.” This indicates a level of concern that extends beyond the publicly known issues.
Ohtani’s Determination vs. The Reality of Aging
Despite the mounting physical challenges, The Athletic anticipates that Ohtani will be reluctant to abandon his aspirations of being a two-way player. The outlet noted Ohtani’s lack of media availability since September 7th, suggesting a period of introspection or strategic communication. Throughout his career, Ohtani has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to maintaining his dual role.
This determination was famously articulated by Ohtani himself during the 2025 postseason period: “The reason I am a two-way player is because that is who I am.” This statement encapsulates his identity as a player and his unwavering drive.
The Future of Two-Way Play
Looking ahead, The Athletic acknowledges the immense difficulty of successfully managing a 162-game season as a two-way player, describing it as “closer to a fantasy.” However, they also concede that Ohtani has a history of turning such fantasies into reality. His career has been defined by overcoming perceived impossibilities, leaving the door open, however slightly, for the continuation of his unique talent.
The current situation presents a critical juncture for Ohtani and the Dodgers. While his dedication to the two-way path is undeniable, the physical realities of the sport and the aging process are significant factors that cannot be ignored. The coming months will likely reveal more about the long-term implications of these injuries and Ohtani’s potential adjustments to his career trajectory.
