Los Angeles Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes addressed mounting concerns about superstar Shohei Ohtani’s recent performance struggles and accumulating injuries during comments to the media Thursday. Ohtani was held out of the team’s matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals, marking another day of rest as the club navigates his physical condition heading into the playoffs.
Gomes downplayed the connection between Ohtani’s multiple injuries and his recent offensive decline. The elite player has posted a batting average of just .137 over a two-week span, recording 20 strikeouts in 13 games. Despite battling discomfort in both knees, his bicep, and his neck, Gomes characterized the slump as part of normal seasonal rhythms rather than injury-related. He emphasized that Ohtani’s exceptional talent means occasional struggles attract significant attention, comparing his situation to being disadvantaged by his own high standards.
The Dodgers organization remains hesitant to place Ohtani on the injured list but has indicated openness to providing extended rest if needed. Gomes stated the team would evaluate whether his various ailments are actually hampering his performance before making such a decision. The timing presents challenges for Los Angeles, as the postseason approaches and the team seeks playoff momentum.
Observers have noted the growing difficulty in separating Ohtani’s physical issues from his performance decline, particularly as his initial left knee problem and bicep injury have been joined by neck discomfort. With the regular season’s final stretch underway, determining the right balance between rest and maintaining roster availability remains a critical decision for Dodgers management.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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