# Ohtani returns to Dodgers lineup

> Ohtani hits first at-bat as Dodgers prepare for postseason
- Title: Ohtani returns to Dodgers lineup · Mlb | Shortify
- Summary: Ohtani hits first at-bat as Dodgers prepare for postseason Ohtani's return focuses on establishing a sustainable baseline for October play
- Keywords: shohei ohtani, dodgers, seattle, mlb, injured list, postseason, nfl, sports, Ohtani, returns, lineup
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/shohei-ohtani-singles-in-first-at-bat-back-from-injured-list
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: shohei ohtani, dodgers, seattle, mlb, injured list, postseason, nfl, sports
## Ohtani back in lineup
Ohtani returned from injured list after 15 days to address right biceps discomfort and left knee soreness.

> He looked good. I thought the at-bat quality was good.
## First at-bat success
Ohtani hit a single in his first plate appearance, followed by a walk in the third inning.

> There wasn't any chase. I thought he hit the ball hardest in his first at-bat.
## Health focus
Manager Dave Roberts emphasized Ohtani's plate discipline and full swing path as indicators of health.

> When you feel healthy and strong, you feel like you can just see the baseball, trust your eyes and take your swing.
## Postseason readiness
The Dodgers aim to establish rhythm with Ohtani before October, prioritizing health over immediate dominance.

> The biggest thing is get him as many at-bats as we can, some rhythm and timing.
## Workload challenges
Ohtani's natural desire to play through discomfort complicates managing his physical condition.

> Every time we've ever gone to Shohei about a day off or when he's going to pitch ... his answer every single time is, whatever it takes to help the team win.
## Unprecedented situation
The Dodgers have no historical blueprint for managing Ohtani's dual role and physical demands.

> There's no playbook for this. It's not like Doc can draw from experience or I can draw from experience of, oh yeah, when we dealt with this.
## Key takeaway

Ohtani's return focuses on establishing a sustainable baseline for October play