Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers missed Friday’s game to be with his family for the birth of his second child. Although absent for the series opener against the Orioles, the team chose not to place him on the paternity list, leaving the roster short for the game. Ohtani is expected to return over the weekend. Having pitched on Wednesday, he should be ready before his next scheduled appearance on the mound.

With Ohtani unavailable, rookie Ryan Ward filled in as the designated hitter on Friday, batting seventh. Kyle Tucker adjusted from his usual position to the leadoff spot, which Ohtani typically occupies. Ohtani’s performance this season has been exceptional with the second-highest OPS in the National League (.962) and a 1.47 ERA, despite recent challenges such as a blister on his pitching hand and knee inflammation related to his pitching mechanics.

Will Smith’s Neck Issue

Dodgers catcher Will Smith is dealing with a neck injury and will receive an injection for his stiff neck. According to Manager Dave Roberts, recent scans showed no severe issues. Smith had previously been diagnosed with an inflamed disk. Although the team initially hoped for a quick return, Smith remains on the injured list and is unlikely to join the team’s upcoming trip to Minnesota, which marks the beginning of a three-city series.

Edwin Díaz’s Progress

Closer Edwin Díaz is recovering well from elbow surgery and has moved on to pitching off the mound. On Friday, he completed a 15-pitch bullpen session with fastballs clocking at 91-93 mph. Manager Dave Roberts shared the update, expressing optimism about Díaz’s recovery. The Dodgers are aiming for him to return after the All-Star break without rushing his rehabilitation.

Additional Roster Updates

Left fielder Teoscar Hernández is making progress with his recovery from a strained left hamstring and is anticipated to begin a minor-league rehab assignment next week, Roberts indicated. Meanwhile, left-hander Blake Snell is advancing in his rehabilitation from elbow surgery. Following a NanoNeedle scope procedure in mid-May, Snell is nearing readiness to pitch off the mound, according to the latest reports.