Ohtani Leaves Start Early, Remains as Hitter

Shohei Ohtani left his seventh pitching start of the season for the Los Angeles Dodgers early in the fourth inning against the Cincinnati Reds after throwing six consecutive balls, including two wild pitches, due to cramping in the lower part of his body. The Dodgers emphasized the issue was unrelated to his surgically repaired right elbow, which was operated on after the 2023 season. Ohtani threw 51 pitches over just over three innings, allowing two runs on five hits, with four strikeouts and two walks. Despite his early exit from the mound, he remained in the game as designated hitter and continues to lead the National League with 38 home runs. Concerns about his health are heightened by his recent return to pitching and his record-setting 10-year, $700 million contract. The Dodgers, leading the NL West and managing Ohtani's workload, are focused on maintaining their championship hopes as the trade deadline approaches.