Should the Dodgers Be Cautious With Shohei Ohtani’s Workload?

This topic is the focus of the latest discussion by California Post baseball writers Dylan Hernandez and Jack Harris on the Dodgers Post podcast.

Recorded at Dodger Stadium over the weekend, the episode follows the team’s rough series against the Arizona Diamondbacks. They take a moment to reflect on the recent sloppy play and its impact on the Dodgers’ first-half performance, as well as their hopes for what’s to come as they head out of the break.

Then, the conversation shifts to a more pressing issue: Ohtani’s ongoing knee inflammation and how it might influence how the Dodgers will use him in the remainder of the season.

Dylan views Ohtani’s choice to rest as a positive sign. He missed both the recent pitching event at Dodger Stadium and the All-Star festivities in Philadelphia, opting instead to return to Los Angeles for some recovery after sustaining a knee injury.

Jack, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of managing Ohtani’s unique two-way responsibilities. He suggests that a more balanced schedule—perhaps ensuring additional days off between pitching outings—could be beneficial as the Dodgers gear up for October.

The duo also discusses how this knee issue echoes the surgery Ohtani had back in 2019, raising questions about whether this history adds to the concerns regarding his current situation.

They finish by considering some reader comments, reminiscing about the Dodgers’ 2014 season, and wrapping up with their usual predictions and trivia.