Shohei Ohtani skips bullpen session vs. Cubs: Dodgers pitching coach explains the decision

Shohei Ohtani had a quiet night at the plate in the Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs game. Returning from paternity leave, the two-way star is easing back into the rhythm of the season after a strong start to the year. While his presence in the lineup remains critical, Ohtani was notably absent from his scheduled bullpen session—and now the Dodgers have explained why.

With a 16–9 record, the Dodgers are looking to bounce back after dropping back-to-back games to the Cubs. Ohtani’s limited impact since his return has given other players a chance to step up, including rookie Andy Pages, who blasted a home run as he continues to make his mark in the big leagues.

Dodgers beat reporter Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reported that pitching coach Mark Prior addressed Ohtani’s missed bullpen session following Wednesday’s game.

“Ohtani didn’t throw at all while home on paternity leave last weekend, so we wanted him to play catch a couple times this week and build up to getting back on the mound,” Prior said. The team remains cautious as Ohtani ramps up, with the long-term goal of keeping him healthy and effective throughout the season.

Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers star.

Ohtani set to return to bullpen session this Saturday

Good news for Dodgers fans: Ohtani is not dealing with an injury. The issue holding him back from pitching has been inconsistency in his recent throwing routine. However, pitching coach confirmed that Ohtani is scheduled to return to a bullpen session on Saturday.

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This update offers a sigh of relief for the team and its supporters. While the Dodgers’ rotation has held up well in recent weeks, Ohtani’s presence on the mound could provide a significant boost to manager Dave Roberts’ pitching staff.

Blake Snell still sidelined with shoulder discomfort

Blake Snell, one of the key arms in the Dodgers’ rotation, missed another bullpen session after experiencing continued discomfort in his shoulder. The left-hander was expected to throw against the Cubs, but the team opted to hold him back.

“He’ll be re-evaluated once we return to Los Angeles, but I’m not too concerned at the moment,” manager Roberts told reporters on Wednesday. The Dodgers are scheduled to face the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday and over the weekend, with Snell’s return still uncertain.