The Los Angeles Dodgers’ championship chase took a gut-wrenching hit Saturday night when superstar Shohei Ohtani suffered a partial dislocation of his left shoulder in Game 2 of the World Series. Ohtani, attempting to steal second base in the seventh inning, slid awkwardly and remained on the ground, clutching his arm as Dodgers fans watched in shocked silence. The Dodgers ultimately claimed a 4-2 victory over the Yankees, but the celebration was overshadowed by concern for their marquee player.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed the injury postgame, revealing that Ohtani would undergo tests to determine its full severity. “The strength was great, the range of motion good, so we’re encouraged,” Roberts said, offering a glimmer of hope to fans desperate to see Ohtani return. However, the injury raises serious questions for a team on the brink of a title, especially given Ohtani’s pivotal role in the Dodgers’ historic season.
Ohtani’s addition to the Dodgers this season, marked by a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, has electrified fans. Known for his unprecedented 50/50 season in home runs and stolen bases, Ohtani has not pitched this year due to prior arm injuries but has remained an invaluable part of the Dodgers’ lineup.
As the Dodgers prepare to head to Yankee Stadium for Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead, Ohtani’s availability remains in limbo. With 45 of 56 teams who’ve held a 2-0 World Series lead going on to win the title, the Dodgers are in a strong position—but the potential loss of Ohtani could turn the tide. Now, as the Dodgers chase history, fans are left holding their breath, waiting to see if their superstar will return to help secure the title.
