Ohtani To Make Final Dodgers Start Before All‑Star Break

Overview

• Shohei Ohtani was cleared to make the Dodgers' final pitching start before the All‑Star break when he takes the mound Friday at Dodger Stadium.
• Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani will have limited participation in the All‑Star Game and is likely to get one or two at‑bats rather than pitch.
• Ohtani is carrying minor issues in his right bicep, left knee and a right‑hand blister but still owns strong season numbers despite allowing more runs in his most recent starts.
• Arizona will counter with lefty Eduardo Rodríguez, who earned his first All‑Star selection, and the club notified first baseman Pavin Smith he will be designated for assignment while recalling outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt from Triple‑A Reno.
• The Dodgers enter the break as the only 60‑win team with about a 14.5‑game NL West lead, a standing that helps explain cautious handling of Ohtani before a lengthy road trip.