DETROIT — Shohei Ohtani threw a bullpen session Friday at Comerica Park before the Dodgers opened a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers. But it was not immediately clear if it put him in line to pitch Sunday.
“I really don’t know what to make of it because I didn’t put eyes on it,” manager Dave Roberts said before the game. “Obviously I’ve got to talk to Shohei, talk to [pitching coach Mark Prior] and then we’ll make a decision for Sunday.”
Ohtani threw about 20 pitches, which Roberts noted was “short,” but he said he had no expectations for the pitch count.
Ohtani’s between-start sessions usually are closer to 30 pitches, but that isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm, especially without a clearer picture of the plan for Friday’s session. The Dodgers will continue to monitor Ohtani’s recovery from a knee ailment.
Ohtani had last thrown off the mound six days prior, in a live batting practice session last Saturday.
If he starts Sunday, it likely will be one inning in front of right-hander Tyler Glasnow, Roberts said.
Ohtani hasn’t pitched since July 3 against the San Diego Padres, managing swelling and discomfort in his left knee. Barring a setback, the schedule allows for Ohtani to make five starts on at least five days’ rest before the end of the regular season.
Glasnow, who threw five innings and 89 pitches on Tuesday in his first start back from the injured list, is scheduled to start on regular rest Sunday.
“Glas felt good going on regular,” Roberts said when asked why the Dodgers didn’t push his start to Tuesday, “and also looking at the calendar and where other guys line up.”
