The Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was unable to play against the Texas Rangers in their series opener. The slugger left the team on paternity leave to be with his wife Mamiko Tanaka. Ohtani and his wife announced their pregnancy during December, but there were no further details about the baby due.
According to Major League Baseball’s rules, Ohtani can be on paternity leave for the next three days. After that, he will be automatically transferred to the restricted list. The Dodgers will need to play without their superstar for a while.
When Will Shohei Ohtani Return To The Dodgers Lineup?
According to manager Dave Roberts’ latest update, Ohtani may return to play this weekend. While it seems a little too short, Roberts said he’s unaware of the right date.
“Shohei is obviously on paternity leave. He and Mamiko are expecting at some point, that’s all I know. I don’t know when he’s going to come back, I don’t know when they’re going to have the baby, but obviously they’re together in anticipation. Yes, there is a chance. I don’t know what day, but there’s certainly a chance,” Roberts said.
Dave Roberts gives an update on Shohei Ohtani going on the paternity list, as the #Dodgers start their road trip with the Texas Rangers. pic.twitter.com/Kq6cUKv61Q
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) April 18, 2025
Dodgers fans will miss their top slugger for a few games, but the entire fanbase is excited and happy for his return.
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Tommy Edman To Lead Off In Shohei Ohtani’s Absence
The Dodgers have a star-studded lineup and enough players to fill in for Ohtani. While they cannot replace him, they have strong candidates ready to take on. Roberts has placed Tommy Edman in the lead-off spot in Ohtani’s absence, and he’s already doing a perfect job.
Edman is having the best start of his career with the Dodgers. The slugger smashed seven home runs in 80 at-bats. Edman smashed a leadoff home run against the Rangers after taking over Shohei Ohtani’s position.
Roberts will also bring Eddie Rosario to fill in for Ohtani until his return. All other players will remain in their usual positions. Rosario has a great chance to prove his worth. Fans are eagerly waiting for Ohtani’s return. Recently, they praised the slugger’s kind gesture in the Dodgers dugout.
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