Dave Roberts said on August 21, 2026 that Shohei Ohtani is close to a game return after throwing 30 pitches to six hitters in a live batting practice session. "30 pitches, six hitters. Um, we're getting there," Roberts said during a press conference.
Roberts added that if it were up to him, Ohtani would already be pitching in a game within a few days, though he expects another live batting practice session first. "If it were up to me, he'd be in a game in a few days, but I would assume another live BP," he said. Roberts also said he believes the knee issue that had been affecting Ohtani is now behind him, noting, "I think it's behind us." He explained that Ohtani has been working on mechanical adjustments, including a closed landing, to reduce pressure on the knee.
Roberts said the combination of expanded rosters and Ohtani's two-way return will effectively give the club two extra pitchers down the stretch. He stated the goal is to stretch Ohtani to full-length starts by the postseason, provided the rotation stays healthy, saying the plan is for Ohtani to have "six innings when we start the postseason, but you still got to do the work and get there." Roberts also mentioned that two injured relievers are expected to be eligible to come off the injured list in September, with short stints anticipated as they build back up.
On the rotation, Roberts confirmed Tyler Glasnow will start Tuesday next week with no pitch limit. Regarding outfielder Andy Pages, Roberts said the issue may lean toward surgery, but noted the recovery timeline has not changed. "I think they're probably leaning towards some type of surgery, but like I said last night, I don't think it changes the timeline," he explained, with the recovery carrying a four-week floor before Pages could return. Roberts recalled telling Pages directly in the X-ray room that his season was not over and that the team expects him back at full health.
Roberts also praised the coaching culture Hennessy has built, and said he sees Robbles slotting into a relief role as a multi-inning option. He additionally credited newly acquired outfielder Alec as a strong teammate and defender who has improved since joining the organization. With Glasnow's start set for Tuesday and Pages working toward a return with a four-week floor, Roberts indicated the club's focus remains on building Ohtani back toward game readiness through additional live at-bats.