Dave Roberts weighs benching Shohei Ohtani as the Dodgers face a 2-0 deficit against the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are actively searching for urgent answers after falling behind 2-0 to the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series. This mounting postseason pressure could result in the surprising benching of arguably the best player in baseball, designated hitter and pitcher Shohei Ohtani.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the media regarding the potential benching of his superstar player amid ongoing hitting struggles and persistent injury concerns. The situation has reached a critical juncture for the franchise as they attempt to mount a comeback in the MLB playoffs.
The evaluation of the player's physical condition and recent performance requires a direct dialogue between the manager and the athlete, according to information published by bleache.
Shohei Ohtani Injury Concerns and Postseason Struggles
Injuries have unfortunately been a major concern for Shohei Ohtani throughout the entire 2024 baseball season. The two-way star has not pitched on the mound since July 3 and has spent significant time on the injured list during the campaign.
Furthermore, his recent at-bats have not matched the elite production fans are accustomed to seeing from the former Most Valuable Player. Reporters Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic described his current postseason plate appearances as entirely unrecognizable.
Dave Roberts Considers Roster Changes for NLCS Game 3
Manager Dave Roberts noted that the star player simply does not feel great physically at this moment in the season. The leadership group plans to have an honest conversation to determine what path forward is best for the individual and the team.
Making a lineup change involving a player with four league MVPs, four Silver Slugger awards, and six All-Star selections is never an easy decision. Despite the slump, imagining the slugger breaking through in any crucial at-bat remains very easy for the coaching staff.
Josue De Paula Ready to Replace Struggling Star
If the Los Angeles Dodgers ultimately decide to bench their struggling star, rookie Josue De Paula would likely serve as his immediate replacement. A team source confirmed this potential roster adjustment for the upcoming games.
Josue De Paula made his major league debut in September and has already recorded two walks in three plate appearances during the playoffs. While replicating peak performance is unrealistic, the rookie could provide a much-needed spark.
Declining Statistics and Postseason Slump Details
The statistical decline has become glaringly obvious as the team trails the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series. The slugger went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Game 2, dropping his overall postseason batting average down to .150.
Struggling significantly against fastballs, he even resorted to showing bunt during the recent 7-4 defeat. He has recorded only a single RBI since August 19, hitting well below .160 since hitting his last home run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Dodgers considering benching Shohei Ohtani?
The Dodgers are considering benching Shohei Ohtani because of his deep postseason slump, a batting average of .150, and lingering physical injuries.
Who would replace Shohei Ohtani if he is benched?
If benched, rookie Josue De Paula would likely replace him in the lineup, providing a potential spark for the team during the playoffs.
What did manager Dave Roberts say about the situation?
Manager Dave Roberts stated that the player does not feel great and that a direct conversation is scheduled to determine the best course of action.
