What Shohei Ohtani's impending return means for Dodgers' lineup

Ohtani, who has been on the 15-day IL retroactively since Sept. 8 due to lingering issues with his right bicep and left knee, took coach pitch batting practice and went through his normal workout routine on Tuesday ahead of a 7-0 win over the San Diego Padres and according to the Dodgers skipper, he continues to check all the boxes necessary for a return.

"The thought is tomorrow," Roberts told reporters. "Unless I hear otherwise, he'll be in the lineup tomorrow."

The Athletics Lawrence Butler is tagged out by Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas as he tires to extend his double into a triple during the eighth inning at Sutter Health Park on April 18, 2026. (Scott Marshall, Imagn Images) Cleveland Guardians mascot Slider interacts with fans during game against the Baltimore Orioles at Progressive Field on April 17, 2026. (David Richard, Imagn Images) Washington Nationals right fielder Daylen Lile attempts to catch a ball hit for a single by the Pittsburgh Pirates' Jake Mangum during the first inning at PNC Park on April 16, 2026. The Nationals won the game, 8-7. (Charles LeClaire, Imagn Images) Milwaukee Brewers catcher Gary Sanchez wears a special chest protector to commemorate Jackie Robinson Day during the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at American Family Field on April 15, 2026.