Dodgers Could Bench Shohei Ohtani For NLCS Game 3 vs Brewers Amid Massive Slump
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar and four-time MVP Shohei Ohtani could reportedly be benched for Game 3 of the NLCS.
The Los Angeles Dodgers' pursuit of MLB's first three-peat in 26 years hangs in the balance as they face potential benching of star player Shohei Ohtani. The Milwaukee Brewers surged two wins away from their first NL pennant since 1982, defeating Los Angeles in Game 2 of the NLCS 7-4 on Monday.
Central to the Dodgers' woes is four-time MVP Shohei Ohtani, who struggled in Game 2 with a 0-for-4 performance, two strikeouts, and a disappointing overall NLCS record of 1-for-7, three walks, seven strikeouts, no home runs, or RBIs. In the 2026 playoffs, his numbers have not improved, with just three hits in 20 at-bats.
Following Monday's loss, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts admitted the team's struggles, stating, "Yeah, I mean, obviously it hasn't been good." He suggested a conversation with Ohtani to determine the best course of action for both the player and the team.
According to Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, if Ohtani is benched, rookie pitcher Josue De Paula is the leading candidate to replace him as the team's designated hitter. Ohtani has dealt with injuries throughout the year, missing two weeks in September due to left knee and right biceps issues.
ESPN baseball reporter Alden Gonzalez reported that Los Angeles will continue playing Ohtani if he deems himself healthy. However, a source clarified that the team would only sit Ohtani if he believes the injuries are compromising his performance. If he feels fit to play, the plan is to keep him in the lineup.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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