Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani was given a day off Thursday due to physical discomfort, stemming from right biceps and neck issues. The two-way star appeared distressed during a 10-inning loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, striking out four times. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani texted him after Wednesday's 8-6 defeat, agreeing the rest was the right decision.

Ohtani's symptoms have persisted in recent weeks, though a stint on the injured list remains unlikely. Roberts stated he would evaluate Ohtani's status later Thursday before Friday's series opener against Washington. Center fielder Tommy Edman filled Ohtani's leadoff spot, while Alex Call served as designated hitter.

Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to lingering left knee and right biceps pain. At the plate, he is hitting .279 after a rare streak of four consecutive strikeouts. Before his shutdown, he posted an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA in 14 mound starts.

The Dodgers aim to have a healthy Ohtani for October as they chase a third consecutive World Series title.