Shohei Ohtani to Hit Only vs Diamondbacks

The Dodgers will see only one side of Shohei Ohtani on Friday, as the superstar DH will be at the plate but will not take the mound against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Ohtani continues to battle a lingering knee problem that has forced the team to adjust his pitching schedule for the weekend. This decision also sidelines him from the upcoming All‑Star game, giving him more than a week off between starts.

Ohtani’s Availability and Rest Period

The knee issue remains Ohtani’s primary concern, prompting the Dodgers to rely on him solely as a hitter for the Arizona matchup. By missing the All‑Star contest, he gains additional recovery time, potentially extending the break between his outings. The extra rest could be crucial as the season’s intensity picks up later in the month.

Dodgers Bullpen Game Setup

Because the club had a day off on Thursday, Los Angeles will lean on a bullpen opener to face Arizona, counting on several rested arms to keep the game competitive. Veteran right‑hander Kyle Hurt is slated to start, giving the staff an option who can go multiple innings despite splitting time between the rotation and relief duties. Hurt posted a 4.55 ERA in 31 outings this season, though his field‑independent pitch (FIP) sits at a stronger 3.55.

Once Edwin Díaz returns to health, Hurt’s spot could become vulnerable, but this start offers a chance to make a case for staying on the roster during the stretch run. The Dodgers aim to keep the momentum going while giving their top relievers ample rest ahead of the All‑Star break and the homestand that follows.

Key Match‑ups and Lineup Moves

Los Angeles is shifting its infield chemistry for the weekend, resting Max Muncy—who will enjoy his third All‑Star appearance next week—and moving Tommy Edman to third base. In the vacancy created, Miguel Rojas steps into the lineup, though the exact spot is not detailed in the coverage. The adjustments aim to balance rest and performance with Arizona’s left‑handed starter, Eduardo Rodriguez, in the turns.

Against Rodriguez, Andy Pages and Mookie Betts are highlighted as solid contact threats, with Betts showing strong form recently. Both players could complicate Rodriguez’s plans with timely base hits. Meanwhile, Teoscar Hernandez returns from the injured list and is expected to get back in the swing of things, adding an extra bat for the Dodgers’ offensive efforts.

Managing the Bullpen

With the All‑Star break looming, the Dodgers are also thinking about how to keep their relief corps fresh for the stretch run. Kyle Hurt’s start offers a chance for him to showcase durability, especially with the team’s deep bench of arms waiting for their turns. The organization will monitor how he fares, particularly as they consider the future of the bullpen once Díaz and others return from injury.

The Dodgers’ decision to lean on Ohtani only at the plate, while giving him a substantial break, reflects a careful balance between immediate win chances and long‑term health considerations. Fans can expect the team to continue adjusting its rotation and lineup as the season progresses, especially with upcoming high‑stakes matchups against division rivals.