Dodgers notes: Ohtani’s knee update, Ward’s big-league adjustment, and more

After sweeping the Rays, the Dodgers have a day-plus break before facing the Orioles. Ohtani is dealing with left knee inflammation and a bleeding blister on his pitching hand, but the team says he’s still on track to start Friday. Will Smith is unlikely to be reinstated Friday as the team wants him fully healthy, Teoscar Hernández is set for live batting practice with a rehab assignment likely next week, and Ryan Ward is learning to navigate MLB pitching after a brief April call-up, focusing on quality at-bats and smart pitch selection. Liana Handler’s LA Times piece adds context on the Wednesday game and other injuries.