Wed Oct 30 02:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Ohtani Plays Through Shoulder Injury, Dodgers Clinch 3-0 World Series Lead
**NEW YORK** – Shohei Ohtani, despite suffering a left shoulder subluxation in Game 2, started in Game 3 of the World Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the New York Yankees, showcasing his grit and determination. Though he went 0-for-3 at the plate, Ohtani reached base twice, drawing a leadoff walk and getting hit by a pitch in the ninth inning.
The Dodgers emerged victorious, winning 4-2 to extend their World Series lead to a commanding 3-0. Ohtani’s presence in the lineup significantly boosted the team’s morale, and he is expected to continue starting in the remaining games.
“He did a really nice job of competing,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “I don’t think that it got any worse.”
Ohtani, known for his resilience, passed all pre-game tests and reassured his teammates after the injury, texting them that he would be fine and ready for Game 3. He wore a warming device on his injured shoulder and held onto his jersey for support during at-bats.
“I taped myself up today, so it did feel different,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton. “The last at-bat, I felt like, if I took that ball, it would have been a walk. So I still felt like I had a pretty good at-bat there.”
While the Dodgers are optimistic about Ohtani’s recovery, the long-term effects of the injury remain uncertain. Ohtani, who signed a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers this past offseason, acknowledged that further evaluation and potential procedures may be necessary after the season.
“I haven’t had further conversations about the future plan,” he said. “I think it’s something that’s going to happen after the season is over, do additional testing.”
The 2024 NL MVP favorite and first player to achieve a 50-50 season (50 homers, 50 stolen bases), Ohtani brings a powerful presence to the Dodgers’ lineup. His mere presence in the batter’s box poses a constant threat to opposing pitchers, and his determination to play through pain underscores his unwavering dedication to the team.
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