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4h ago

Dodgers Keep Shohei Ohtani in NLCS Lineup

Manager Dave Roberts said the club is honoring Ohtani’s wish to play while preserving the option to change his role if his slump or injuries continue.

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani runs the bases during a game, Image 2 shows Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani reacts after striking out against the Milwaukee Brewers during the NLCS, Image 3 shows Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and pitching coach Mark Prior look on from the dugout during the NLCS
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Overview

  • Roberts confirmed Tuesday that Shohei Ohtani will start Game 3 as the Dodgers’ designated hitter, ending a short but intense internal discussion about benching him.
  • Ohtani enters the game on a prolonged power drought that dates to Aug. 18 and a postseason line of 3-for-20 (.150) with no extra-base hits, a slump that has coincided with a left-knee problem and right-biceps/right-arm issues.
  • The club framed the choice as listening to Ohtani, who was described as adamant about playing, even as analysts and former players publicly argued both for and against benching him based on recent form.
  • If Los Angeles reverses course it could use Ohtani as a pinch-hitter, remove him from the roster, or hand the DH job to rookie Josue De Paula, who reached base in half of his 42 September plate appearances after a Double-A call-up.
  • What to watch next: whether a short-term lineup change helps the Dodgers rally from a 0-2 series hole and whether the team prioritizes immediate October urgency or longer-term protection of Ohtani’s health.