Shohei Ohtani's "bloodied finger" worries fans; Dodgers manager reveals latest update

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani secured his sixth win of the season on June 4 with a stellar six-inning shutout performance on the road against the Diamondbacks. Yet, the broadcast showed him frequently licking his fingers, leading to worries after possible blood on his hand was spotted. In response, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated that this would not affect Ohtani's upcoming pitching outings.

During the June 4 game, Ohtani frequently checked his finger while pitching but still completed six innings, allowing only two hits and striking out six batters, lowering his ERA to an impressive 0.74. Despite his dominant performance, the blood on his right middle finger drew widespread discussion. Although manager Roberts announced as expected that Ohtani would take a day off before the next game, he also shared the latest medical report from the training staff in an interview.

According to Japanese media outlet *Sponichi Annex*, Roberts revealed that Ohtani indeed had a blister on his right middle finger. However, after the game, the medical team found no more serious issues following an examination. "I don't think this will affect his future pitching or hitting at all. In fact, his condition was already very stable right after yesterday's game ended." Roberts also noted that this problem has not just recently appeared—Ohtani has been dealing with it during his last few starts. The coaching staff has not yet fully determined which grip or friction from a particular pitch caused it.

Roberts added, "We (the coaching staff) don't see this as a particular issue." His remarks conveyed an optimistic outlook on Ohtani's situation.