Notable Shohei Ohtani update emerges ahead of MLB postseason

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Notable Shohei Ohtani update emerges ahead of MLB postseason

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Sep 23, 2026 7:14 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers have clinched the National League West.

But right now, the only thing they can think about is getting Shohei Ohtani back for the playoff stretch.

Ohtani was placed on the IL on Sep. 8, and there was hope he would be activated sometime during the series against the San Diego Padres, which began on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Ohtani was activated, with star prospect Josue De Paula being sent down to Triple-A, according to the team’s transaction log.

Per MLB transaction log:

Shohei Ohtani has been officially activated, and Josue De Paula was optioned
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) September 23, 2026

Prior to the activation, Dodgers insider David Vassegh gave a big update on how Ohtani is feeling right now.

“Shohei Ohtani is feeling his best physically in weeks,” he said while speaking to MLB Now.

"Shohei Ohtani is feeling his best physically in weeks."@THEREAL_DV shares insight into Ohtani's potential return to the lineup tonight. pic.twitter.com/1EiwRw5zzS
— MLB Now (@MLBNow) September 23, 2026

Ohtani is expected to be in the starting lineup on Wednesday, so it’s a sigh of relief for the Dodgers as they have already secured their spot as the NL West champions once again.

As for De Paula, Katie Woo of The Athletic reported that he is “in play” to be a part of the postseason roster when the playoffs begin.

Shohei Ohtani has been activated off the IL. Josue De Paula has been optioned to Triple A, but per multiple team sources, very much remains in play for the postseason roster.

News here: https://t.co/Cu2cjqiDEC
— Katie Woo (@katiejwoo) September 23, 2026

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