Los Angeles Dodgers star pitcher Shohei Ohtani was a late scratch before Friday’s matchup against the Baltimore Orioles, but it wasn’t because of an injury.
The Dodgers announced on social media that Ohtani is away from the team on paternity leave.
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Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko, welcomed a daughter to the world last April and he’ll now be away from the team for the birth of his second child.
As a result, outfielder Kyle Tucker will bat in the leadoff spot and Ryan Ward will bat seventh as the designated hitter.
Although there is no specific date for his return, Ohtani is expected to be back in the lineup for the Dodgers at some point this weekend.
The two-way star has had yet another MVP-level campaign so far this season. He’s rattled off 15 home runs with 42 RBIs while batting .296.
On the mound, he’s been just as reliable. He currently boasts a 1.47 ERA to go along with a 7-2 record.
At least for Friday, the Dodgers will have to make due without his contributions.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
