Dave Roberts said on July 19, 2026, that Shohei Ohtani had no issues with his knee after the game, including on a play at first base, and that Ohtani was encouraged after playing catch.
Asked directly whether Ohtani showed any issues with the knee, Roberts said, "No, no, no, he didn't." The Dodgers manager added that he asked Ohtani about the play at first base and was told he came out of it fine, calling it a good overall day for Ohtani. Roberts also praised Ohtani's at-bat against David Bednar, noting Ohtani was seeing the ball well and expanding the zone in a way the team "haven't seen Showi do that in quite some time."
Roberts explained that shifting from a rehab mentality to a compete mentality is difficult after an extended process, stating Ohtani "has been in rehab mode for 18 months" and that the elongated rehab process was intentional. He noted Bednar recorded a five-out save in the game.
On pitching plans, Roberts said the bullpen is in decent shape, with Emmet Sheehan starting the next game and some relievers being given a day off. He confirmed Kyle Hurt was sent back by the Dodgers and stated the team is not planning to call anyone up the next day. Roberts added that the next probable starters are expected to be two s, Sheehan and Robleski.
Roberts also praised the team's performance coming out of the break, citing strong pitching, solid defense, and timely hitting that included a home run from Max Muncy. He described a long game day, noting the team got a reprieve by watching the World Cup before a bus ride as they prepared to face Sanchez.
Roberts singled out catcher Alfonso for getting his first major league hit, acknowledging what the young catcher has been through and saying he was happy to see him get the first one. Alfonso said the moment felt extra special because Yankee Stadium is his grandmother's favorite team's ballpark, and he recalled that Ohtani came straight to him after the hit to offer congratulations.