Shohei Ohtani opens up on playing through pain against Yankees in Game 3 and the team’s World Series aspirations

Shohei Ohtani showcased some immense resilience as he featured in the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup for game 3 of the World Series against the New York Yankees. The Japanese superstar suffered a partial dislocation of his left shoulder while trying to steal a base on Saturday and was required to be examined before making his way to the Big Apple.

The Dodgers were uncertain whether they would have to restructure their lineup for the New York leg. However, on Sunday morning, manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani's test results were positive. The 30-year-old was a day late to the Bronx, arriving on the day of the game.

Ohtani went 0-for-3 at the plate but earned a leadoff walk in the first inning and scored later as teammate Freddie Freeman launched one into the deep right field. Speaking in the post-game interview, the DH spoke about the adjustments he had to make to keep his shoulder steady. He also stated that he would have earned another walk in the ninth inning had he not gotten hit on the left leg.

"I taped myself up today, so I felt different today, compared to when I don't tape myself. The last at-bat I thought that if I took that ball I would walk, so I still felt I had a pretty great at-bat," -Ohtani said via translator Will Ireton. [1:53]

Ohtani also added that because he is feeling good about his shoulder, it doesn't seem like he would require surgery for the dislocation.

"I will have further conversations about the future plan. I think that's something that's going to happen after the season is over, the additional testing. But as per how I feel now, I don't think so," Ohtani stated. [5:20]

Shohei Ohtani focused on overcoming the final hurdle

After missing out on postseason for six years with the Los Angeles Angels, Shohei Ohtani can achieve his dream of clinching the World Series on Tuesday. The generational player acknowledged that the team is determined to finish the title run in Game 4.

"[We're] just really focusing on winning the game tomorrow. As a team there's nothing better than to be able to have the opportunity to do so," Ohtani said through Ireton. [4:40]

This could be Ohtani's first title if the Dodgers are on track for their eighth World Series win. This will be their full season victory since 1988, having also won in 2020 in the COVID-19 shortened season.