Shohei Ohtani was scratched from his scheduled pitching start Friday because of continued irritation in his left knee, a setback that will also keep him out of the All-Star Game.
The decision removes one of baseball’s most closely watched players from both an immediate regular-season assignment and the sport’s midseason showcase. Ohtani had been expected to take the mound Friday before the lingering knee issue prompted a change in plans.
No detailed timeline for his return was immediately provided in the initial report. The move indicates the club is taking a cautious approach with Ohtani, whose workload is monitored closely because of his rare role as both a pitcher and hitter.
Impact on pitching plans
Being scratched from a start does not necessarily signal a long-term absence, but it does interrupt the rhythm of a pitcher’s schedule. For Ohtani, any missed mound appearance draws added attention because his pitching availability is central to how a team structures its rotation and manages rest around other starters.
Knee irritation can affect a pitcher’s delivery, balance and ability to drive off the mound. Even minor discomfort can become a larger concern if it alters mechanics, particularly for a high-velocity pitcher who relies on timing and lower-body strength to repeat his motion.
Ohtani’s absence from the All-Star Game also removes one of the event’s marquee attractions. His presence typically brings added interest because of his status as a global star and the possibility that he can influence a game in multiple ways.
All-Star absence adds spotlight
The All-Star Game is an exhibition, but players and clubs often weigh participation against health and season-long priorities. If a player is dealing with a lingering issue, skipping the event can provide several days of rest around the break and reduce the risk of aggravation.
For now, the key question is whether the knee irritation is short-lived or something that requires a longer pause. Ohtani’s next steps are expected to depend on how the knee responds to treatment, rest and baseball activity in the coming days.
The scratch underscores the balancing act teams face with elite players during the middle of the season. Protecting long-term availability can outweigh one start or one showcase appearance, even when the player involved is among the game’s biggest names.
Key questions
- Why was Shohei Ohtani scratched from his scheduled start?
- Ohtani was scratched because of continued irritation in his left knee.
- Will Shohei Ohtani play in the All-Star Game?
- No. The knee irritation is expected to keep him out of the All-Star Game.
