Shohei Ohtani leaves game with trainers in fourth inning, returns to hit later

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani left Wednesday night’s game with medical trainers in the fourth inning. 

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Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani celebrates as he runs the bases for his solo home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park, Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Washington. The Dodgers won 4-1. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Ohtani was pitching for the Dodgers and had thrown six consecutive balls, and had runners on first and third, before coming out in the middle of an at-bat. Ohtani’s facial expression suggested potential pain around the time of his exit.

Ohtani initially went back to the team’s clubhouse, but then returned to the dugout minutes later. Ohtani then came back into the game to hit in the sixth inning, but struck out.

DODGERS’ SHOHEI OHTANI BLASTS HOMER IN WIN, ACHIEVES STATISTICAL FEAT UNSEEN SINCE WILLIE MAYS

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, right, talks with interpreter Ippei Mizuhara during the ninth inning of an opening day baseball game against the San Diego Padres at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Seoul, South Korea.  (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

He may have been suffering from cramping or tightness in the lower half of his body, ESPN reported.

Ohtani made his return to pitching in June for the first time since August 2023. Right elbow surgery kept him out as a pitcher for the entire 2024 season. 

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Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers before the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on July 29, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Some fans have argued that he should abandon pitching to focus on being a full-time hitter and position played, and to limit potential for injury. 

Meanwhile, others have suggested he give up hitting to focus exclusively on hitting. 

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