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Roberts Will Start Shohei Ohtani in NLCS Game 3

The decision signals the club's choice to back Ohtani's belief he can contribute despite a prolonged slump plus lingering knee and biceps injuries.

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

  • Tuesday Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he spoke privately with Ohtani and will put him in the Game 3 lineup at Dodger Stadium after the player expressed confidence in his condition.
  • Ohtani has struggled at the plate this postseason, going 3-for-20 with no extra-base hits, and has not homered in 110 plate appearances dating to Aug. 18.
  • The team has treated Ohtani for a left-knee problem and right-biceps issues this year that led to a 15-day injured list stint in September and have correlated with his drop in contact quality.
  • Roberts and the front office have considered other options for the designated hitter role, including using Ohtani as a pinch-hitter or replacing him with rookie Josue De Paula if they remove him from the lineup.
  • The choice to start Ohtani leaves the Dodgers balancing an urgent need for offense with concern for his long-term health while public pundits and former players argue both for and against benching the star.