Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirms Shohei Ohtani will play in Game 3 against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will remain part of the team's lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Roberts stated that Ohtani was very convicted and adamant that he is close and feels good enough to play, addressing mounting speculation regarding a potential benching as the team tries to avoid a 3-0 series deficit, according to information published by bleache.
The Dodgers are currently trailing in the postseason series, placing immense pressure on their star player to regain his form at the plate as they continue their quest for a third consecutive World Series title.
Dave Roberts addresses potential Shohei Ohtani benching
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts previously revealed that he was considering benching the four-time MVP after dealing with health issues during the regular season and struggles at the plate to start the playoffs.
Despite these early postseason struggles and the manager's initial hesitation, Ohtani convinced the coaching staff of his readiness, insisting through his interpreter that his injury-related symptoms have subdued recently.
Shohei Ohtani addresses his postseason batting struggles
Ohtani took full accountability for his performance, stating through his interpreter that his symptoms should not be the reason he cannot hit, while acknowledging the high expectations surrounding his role in the lineup.
The two-way star has posted a .150 batting average with a .411 OPS across six postseason contests, going 1-for-7 with three strikeouts in the first two games of the National League Championship Series.
Injury history and regular season performance for the Dodgers
Ohtani appeared in 135 contests during the regular season, marking his fewest since joining the Dodgers as a free agent in 2023, after initially dealing with left knee inflammation in July that forced him to stop pitching.
He was later placed on the 15-day injured list on September 11 due to lingering left knee and right biceps issues, though he still managed to hit 30 home runs, 26 doubles, and drive in 81 runs during the regular season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Shohei Ohtani play in NLCS Game 3 for the Dodgers?
Yes, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will remain in the lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Why was Dave Roberts considering benching Shohei Ohtani?
Dave Roberts considered benching the four-time MVP due to health issues during the regular season and struggles at the plate, where he owns a .150 batting average in the postseason.
What injuries did Shohei Ohtani deal with this season?
Shohei Ohtani dealt with left knee inflammation that stopped his pitching in July, followed by a stint on the 15-day injured list in September due to lingering left knee and right biceps issues.
