Shohei Ohtani Faces Shoulder Injury in Dodgers' World Series Victory

LOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani’s World Series journey hit a setback Saturday night when he suffered a subluxation in his left shoulder during an attempted steal of second base. This injury, categorized as a minor shoulder dislocation, raises concerns about Ohtani’s availability for the rest of the series, despite the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 4-2 victory over the New York Yankees, giving them a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven matchup.

Here is the image capturing the tense moment at Dodger Stadium as Shohei Ohtani clutches his left shoulder.

Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts shared cautious optimism after the game, stating that Ohtani’s initial strength and range-of-motion tests were positive. Further assessment will be made with an MRI scheduled in Los Angeles on Sunday before Ohtani joins the team in New York for the upcoming games at Yankee Stadium.

Roberts expressed hope that Ohtani will remain in the lineup, emphasizing his importance to the Dodgers' World Series aspirations. Ohtani, who has played consistently throughout the season without injury, appeared to be in pain after being tagged out at second base. He lay on the field, clutching his left shoulder before being assisted off by assistant athletic trainer Yosuke Nakajima.

Ohtani’s presence has been crucial to the Dodgers, especially as they’ve overcome other injuries to key players like Mookie Betts, Max Muncy, and Freddie Freeman. His teammates, including outfielder Teoscar Hernandez, noted the crowd’s stunned silence at the sight of Ohtani’s fall, underscoring the superstar’s impact on the team’s success.

With the series heading to New York for Games 3, 4, and potentially Game 5, Ohtani’s recovery will be a focal point for Dodgers fans, who are hoping for his swift return to secure a championship.