​Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani will miss the 2026 All-Star Game and will not pitch Friday night against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to ongoing irritation in his left knee. He had been slated to start the series opener versus Arizona, but the knee issue has forced him to step back from pitching at least for the moment. Ohtani will still be in the Dodgers’ lineup as the designated hitter for the rest of the weekend, the team announced.
Ohtani’s absence from the mound comes as the Dodgers plan knee interventions after the Diamondbacks series, aiming to position him for a strong second half. The team indicated that these procedures are intended to address the knee and improve his overall health for the remainder of the season, though no specifics were provided about the nature of the interventions or a precise return-to-pitching timetable.
As a result of the knee problem and the anticipated treatments, Ohtani will not travel to Philadelphia to participate in the 2026 All-Star Game. The Dodgers did not disclose additional details about the interventions or the expected recovery timeframe.
Friday’s first pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. at Dodger Stadium, where Los Angeles will attempt to extend its strong home performance. The Dodgers currently sit at 61-33 overall and 31-16 at home, boasting the third-best team ERA in the majors at 3.48. Arizona, meanwhile, holds a 19-27 record on the road and a 46-47 mark overall. The Diamondbacks have been notably effective when they hit two or more home runs, posting a 16-4 record in such games.
This series marks the eighth meeting between the two teams this season, with the Dodgers holding a 5-2 edge in the head-to-head matchup. Ohtani’s absence from the mound leaves a gap for Los Angeles, but the designated hitter role will keep him in the lineup as the Dodgers pursue another win. The league-wide media and fans will be watching closely as the team navigates the All-Star break and the upcoming stretch run, hoping Ohtani can regain full health and rejoin the rotation at the earliest safe opportunity.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. For fans and readers seeking the latest updates, stay tuned as more details about Ohtani’s knee treatment and return-to-pitching timeline become available. This recap covers the key developments surrounding Ohtani’s status, the Dodgers’ plan for his knee care, and the upcoming matchup with the Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium.