As the Dodgers face a challenging stretch in their rotation, the need for Shohei Ohtani's return becomes critical. Despite adding top pitchers like Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki, the Dodgers' starting lineup is in disarray, with injuries plaguing key players. Snell and Tyler Glasnow are on the injured list, leaving rookie Sasaki to shoulder significant responsibility along with Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Dustin May in an upcoming series against the Diamondbacks.

Ohtani's presence is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity if the Dodgers want to defend their World Series title. Manager Dave Roberts has opted for a cautious approach, stressing the importance of Ohtani's long-term health after his second Tommy John surgery. Limiting Ohtani to light bullpen sessions, the team is keen on ensuring he is ready for the postseason, especially with October looming and the National League West race tightly contested.