Shohei Ohtani to Miss LA Dodgers visit to Texas as the star awaits first…. 

Shohei Ohtani to Miss LA Dodgers visit to Texas as the star awaits first…. 

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ star player, is notably absent as the team embarks on a three-game series against the Texas Rangers. The reason for his absence is a deeply personal one: Ohtani is in Los Angeles, awaiting the birth of his first child with his wife, Mamiko Tanaka.

Paternity Leave and Team Adjustments

In accordance with Major League Baseball’s policies, Ohtani has been placed on the paternity list, which allows players to miss up to three games. Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, has indicated that there’s a possibility Ohtani could rejoin the team by the end of the series on Sunday, though the exact timing remains uncertain. 

 

To compensate for Ohtani’s absence, the Dodgers have made several roster adjustments. Outfielder Eddie Rosario has been promoted from Triple-A Oklahoma City, bringing with him a strong performance record, including a .339 batting average and two home runs in the minors this season. Additionally, pitcher Noah Davis has been called up to start Friday’s game against the Rangers. To accommodate these changes within the 40-man roster, veteran reliever Edgardo Henriquez has been moved to the 60-day injured list. 

 

Ohtani’s Impact on the Dodgers

Ohtani’s presence on the field has been a significant asset to the Dodgers. In the current season, he has played 20 games, achieving a .288 batting average with six home runs and eight RBIs. His performance has contributed to the team’s offensive strength, and his leadership both on and off the field is highly valued. 

 

Beyond his batting prowess, Ohtani’s return to pitching has been highly anticipated. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in September 2023, he has been focusing on rehabilitation with the goal of rejoining the pitching rotation by midseason. Manager Roberts has emphasized the importance of ensuring Ohtani’s full recovery to maintain the team’s long-term success.

A Glimpse into Ohtani’s Personal Life

In January 2025, Ohtani shared the news of his impending fatherhood on social media, posting a photo of the couple’s dog alongside a pink onesie, signaling the arrival of a baby girl. This announcement was met with widespread support and congratulations from fans and fellow athletes alike.

 

Manager Dave Roberts has noted that while Ohtani is known for his ability to compartmentalize personal and professional matters, the upcoming changes in his life may present new challenges. Roberts remarked on the potential impact of fatherhood on Ohtani’s sleep patterns, humorously suggesting that it would be interesting to see how the “sleep wins out or doesn’t win out when you have a baby.” 

Looking Ahead

As the Dodgers continue their series against the Rangers, the team remains supportive of Ohtani’s decision to prioritize his family during this significant time. The upcoming off-day on Monday provides an opportunity for Ohtani to return to the team before their next series against the Chicago Cubs. Fans and teammates alike are eager to welcome him back, both as a player and as a new father.

In the meantime, the Dodgers will rely on their depth and the contributions of players like Eddie Rosario to maintain their competitive edge. The team’s ability to adapt to such changes reflects the strength and unity that has been a hallmark of their success.

As Ohtani navigates this personal milestone, his journey underscores the balance athletes strive to maintain between their professional commitments and personal lives. The support from his team and fans highlights the respect and admiration he has garnered not only for his exceptional skills on the field but also for his character off it.

Conclusion

Shohei Ohtani’s absence from the Dodgers’ trip to Texas is a testament to the importance of family and personal milestones in the lives of athletes. While his presence on the field is undoubtedly missed, the support from his team and the anticipation of his return underscore the values that define the Dodgers organization. As Ohtani embraces fatherhood, fans and teammates alike look forward to his return, eager to witness the next chapter in the career of one of baseball’s most remarkable talents.