'Persistent Injury Doubts' Ohtani Leaves Door Open for Surgery: "We Will See What the Solution Is"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Shohei Ohtani (32, LA Dodgers), who has faced continuous doubts about his physical condition after failing to return to the pitcher's mound for the postseason, did not completely rule out the possibility of surgery during this offseason.

The LA Dodgers suffered a 4-6 comeback loss to the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the 2026 Major League Baseball National League Championship Series (NLCS, best-of-seven) held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, on the 16th (Korean time). As a result, the Dodgers were swept in four games, suffering a disappointing defeat that derailed their bid for a third consecutive World Series title. Meanwhile, Milwaukee will make its first appearance on the World Series stage in 44 years since 1982.

Ohtani, who started as the lead designated hitter, fought back by hitting a three-run home run in the bottom of the second inning, his first in about two months since August 18. However, he could not single-handedly prevent the team's comeback loss and shocking early exit from the postseason.

The biggest point of interest for reporters who met Ohtani after the game was, once again, his "physical condition" and "whether he will return to playing both pitcher and hitter next year." Ohtani had been placed on the injured list (IL) in early September due to right biceps inflammation. Although he returned to the lineup as a hitter on September 23, doubts persisted that he was forcing himself to play while hiding pain or injury despite not being at full fitness. This was compounded by the aftermath of a knee injury during the season, which ultimately led to his failure to make any pitching appearances in the second half. Given that he previously underwent right elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (Tommy John) surgery in September 2023 and left shoulder labral arthroscopic surgery in November 2024, concerns were widespread that he might need another operation.

According to Japanese media outlets such as Full Count and Nikkan Sports, when asked whether he would attempt to play both pitcher and hitter again next year, Ohtani said, "I intend to do everything. Of course, I want to work hard to make it a better season," while adding, "I was unable to pitch in the postseason, and the same was true for the last month. That is a point where I feel ashamed and dissatisfied with myself."

Regarding his physical management and treatment direction during the offseason, he continued, "Now that we are entering the offseason, it seems like things regarding my body will be sorted out going forward. At this stage, nothing has been decided." He added, "I do not yet know exactly how things will unfold, including treatment, but I will approach it with a mindset of continuing on."

He did not deny the most sensitive question about "offseason surgery plans." Ohtani answered, "As of now, (regarding that part) I do not know well yet," and stated, "I want to see how we can resolve things, including various solutions going forward," leaving the possibility of surgery open.

Finally, Ohtani resolved himself by saying, "Although we did not achieve our goal (a third consecutive World Series title), I will use it as nourishment for next year." He added, "I will continue to work hard to make a better season." The question of what "solution" the Dodgers and Ohtani, who were eliminated early from the fall feast, will choose this winter has emerged as the biggest topic of the offseason.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original