LOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani sustained an injury to his left shoulder while sliding into second base on a steal attempt in the seventh inning of a 4-2 World Series Game 2 win over the New York Yankees on Saturday night at Dodger Stadium.
Speaking after the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani sustained a subluxation — defined as a minor dislocation — of the shoulder and would undergo further testing.
Roberts added Ohtani’s strength and range of motion were good and that the team was “encouraged.”
The injury left a sour note on a victory that gave the Dodgers a 2-0 series lead. Game 3 is Monday in New York.
“I’m expecting him to be there,” Roberts said in response to a question about whether he believes his team can sustain a potential loss of Ohtani.
Ohtani, who did not sit out any games because of injury this season, slid past the bag, then was slow to get up, rolling on the ground while grabbing his left arm.
He was finally helped to his feet and walked toward the dugout with Dodgers assistant athletic trainer Yosuke Nakajima holding the superstar’s arm. They disappeared into the clubhouse.
Ohtani, who produced the first 50/50 season in history this season and is expected to win his third MVP award next month, is slashing .260/.403/.460 with three home runs but no stolen bases in 13 postseason games.
The Dodgers led 4-1 when he exited. New York rallied in the ninth inning, scoring one run before leaving the bases loaded.
