Shohei Ohtani Hits Off Tee as Dodgers Prepare for Playoff Run

Ohtani takes first swings since injury

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has taken a big step forward in his recovery. The designated hitter took swings off a tee on Tuesday in Los Angeles. This was the first time Ohtani has swung a bat since going on the 15 day injured list on September 8.

Ohtani was sidelined due to right biceps inflammation. He did not travel with the team to Cincinnati for their latest road games. Instead, he stayed back in Los Angeles to continue his treatment and workout routines.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts gave a positive update on the player's condition. He confirmed that Ohtani felt good after the session.

Dodgers eye division title and playoff run

The team wants to make sure Ohtani is fully ready before he returns to competitive action. Roberts explained that the team will focus on a consistent build up for the four time MVP.

"Don't know when the time of return to play is, but today was positive, and hopefully we can just keep building towards that," Roberts said.

The manager added that he expects Ohtani to play in some regular season games before the playoffs start, though he does not know exactly how many games that will be.

The Dodgers do not need to rush Ohtani back because they have already clinched a playoff spot. The two time defending World Series champions went into Tuesday's game against the Cincinnati Reds needing a magic number of three to win their 13th NL West title in 14 years.