Shohei Ohtani was scratched from a scheduled pitching start this week because of knee issues, the team confirmed. The two-way star's return to the mound is now uncertain, leaving the Angels without their ace for the foreseeable future.
Knee issue sidelines Ohtani
The Angels announced the change just hours before the game, citing discomfort in Ohtani's right knee. He had been slated to start but was replaced on short notice. The team did not provide a timeline for his return, only saying he is day-to-day.
Ohtani has been dealing with knee problems on and off this season. He previously missed time in June with a similar issue. The latest setback raises questions about how the team will manage his workload as a two-way player.
MVP market still bullish
Despite the injury, a prediction market shows 86.5% odds that Ohtani will win the American League MVP award in 2026. That's a strong signal from bettors that they expect him to return to form and dominate again.
The market, which allows users to trade shares on outcomes, has Ohtani as the heavy favorite. No other player comes close in the current odds. The high percentage suggests confidence in his long-term value, even with the short-term uncertainty.
Ohtani's next scheduled start is unclear. The Angels have not announced a replacement or a plan for his pitching workload. He continues to hit and serve as the designated hitter.
The team is in a tight playoff race, and losing Ohtani on the mound for an extended period would be a significant blow. His ability to contribute as a hitter remains, but the two-way production is what makes him unique.
The prediction market's 86.5% figure for 2026 MVP suggests that bettors see this as a temporary issue. But until Ohtani takes the mound again, the question of his pitching future will linger.
