Shohei Ohtani Injury Rocks NL Playoff Race, Should Drop Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has been significantly hampered by knee and bicep injuries, with his performance deteriorating sharply since August 18, slashing just .130/.288/.241 with a .529 OPS, one home run, and two RBIs in 14 games. Ohtani attempted to play through the injuries but has been unable to maintain his usual level of play. The development is seen as a major blow to the Dodgers' World Series hopes, with Sports Illustrated arguing the team should no longer be considered favorites in the NL playoff race.