Ohtani Pitches But Doesn't Bat for First Time Since 2021 Due to HBP Soreness; Repeats on June 17
Key Questions
Why did Ohtani pitch but not bat on June 14?
Ohtani sat out hitting for the first time since 2021 due to soreness from a hit-by-pitch. He still struck out 10 batters in a dominant outing.
Did Ohtani bat in his June 17 start?
No, Ohtani again pitched without hitting on June 17, this time due to left knee precaution and inflammation. The prior HBP soreness may have influenced the cautious approach.
What concerns have arisen from Ohtani's recent schedule?
The pattern of pitching without batting has raised questions about his hitting recovery and overall workload management. Neither Ohtani nor the Dodgers have confirmed the exact cause of the knee issue.
On June 14, Ohtani pitched but did not bat for the first time since 2021 due to soreness from a hit-by-pitch. He still dominated with 10 strikeouts. On June 17, he again pitched without hitting, this time due to knee precaution, earning the win. The HBP soreness may have contributed to the cautious approach. This pattern raises questions about his hitting schedule and recovery.