Shohei Ohtani leaves his start against the Reds after showing physical discomfort; Phillies bolster their bullpen with Jhoan Duran

UNITED STATES. Shohei Ohtani left his start on Wednesday against the Cincinnati Reds in the fourth inning, after the intervention of the Dodgers' trainer.

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Concern grew among fans when Ohtani showed signs of discomfort after allowing a hit and issuing a walk, also throwing two wild pitches during that at-bat. Shortly after the medical visit, he was relieved by Anthony Banda.

Shohei Ohtani has left his start in the middle of an at-bat after throwing six consecutive balls, two of which were yanked fastballs that were wild pitches. pic.twitter.com/2sR6Tt3W0Y

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 31, 2025

This was only his seventh start since returning from elbow surgery, in which he had accumulated a solid 1.80 ERA. The organization has not yet issued an official medical report, but the incident raises concerns about his physical condition as the final stretch of the season approaches. Phillies bet on the present with acquisition of Jhoan Duran In a significant move before the Trade Deadline, the Philadelphia Phillies acquired Dominican closer Jhoan Durán from the Minnesota Twins, sending in return two of their top prospects: Mick Abel and Panamanian Eduardo Tait, both included in MLB Pipeline's Top 100. Durán, 27 years old, arrives with an effectiveness of 2.01 and 16 saves this season. His fastball averages 100.2 mph and complements his repertoire with a devastating splitter, curveball, and sweeper. He is considered one of the best pieces available on the market and will not be a temporary reinforcement: he is under contract control until the 2027 season. This transaction immediately bolsters a bullpen that has shown inconsistencies, especially after the departure of figures like Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez. Philadelphia also recently signed David Robertson and is awaiting the return of Venezuelan José Alvarado — although the latter will not be able to see action in the postseason due to an 80-game suspension for the use of prohibited substances. With Durán, the Phillies seek to establish themselves as serious contenders for the World Series, in a season that could be the last with several of their key veteran players, such as Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, and Ranger Suárez. For now, Philadelphia does not rule out further moves in the market, with an eye on a right-handed hitter to complement their offense.