Ohtani Inches Closer to Mound Return, Dodgers Face Setback with Glasnow

Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Shohei Ohtani took another step toward returning to the mound with long toss, while the team received a setback in Tyler Glasnow's recovery, raising concerns about his availability for the postseason.

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani took another step toward returning to the mound on Friday, engaging in long toss exercises in the outfield before the team's game against the Atlanta Braves. The two-way sensation has not pitched all season due to elbow surgery but remains hopeful about making a mound appearance in the postseason.

"Anything is possible," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "I hope that's on his mind as far as motivation for his rehab. The odds of it coming to pass are very slim, but they're not zero."

Ohtani Inches Closer to Mound Return, Dodgers Face Setback with Glasnow

Despite not pitching, Ohtani is having a historic season as a designated hitter, poised to become the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single campaign.

While the Dodgers remain optimistic about Ohtani's return, they received a setback in the recovery of pitcher Tyler Glasnow. Glasnow, who has a 9-6 record with a 3.49 ERA this season, was set to pitch a simulated game on Friday but felt arm discomfort during warmups. The incident raised concerns that Glasnow's injury may be more serious than initially anticipated.

"Obviously, it's a setback," Roberts said. "I don't know what that means as far as the coming days. I do know that we're just going to kind of reassess and see how it feels over the next couple of days and see when we can pick up the ball again."

Glasnow went on the 15-day injured list on August 16 due to elbow tendinitis, initially considered a precautionary measure. However, the latest setback has cast doubt on his availability for the remainder of the regular season.

Glasnow's setback adds to the Dodgers' injury woes, which have plagued their rotation all season long. The team has been without several key starters, including Walker Buehler, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May.

"It's certainly not helpful and positive," Roberts said of Glasnow's injury.

The Dodgers currently hold a commanding lead in the National League West but face a tough schedule down the stretch. The team's ability to make a deep playoff run will depend on the health of their pitching staff, including the return of Ohtani and the recovery of Glasnow.