Shohei Ohtani will be in Dodgers’ Game 3 lineup against Brewers

Shohei Ohtani will be included in the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday night. Manager Dave Roberts announced on Tuesday that Ohtani will bat between second and sixth, as the Dodgers suffered losses in the first two games of the best-of-seven series.

Roberts expressed strong confidence in Ohtani's ability to contribute to the team's success, citing his mechanical improvements and belief that he can help the Dodgers win a baseball game. Ohtani's postseason performance thus far has been mixed, with a .150 average (3 for 20) over six games, seven strikeouts, three walks, one stolen base, and no home runs or RBIs.

The player acknowledged during the NLDS against Atlanta that he is not fully healthy due to right biceps and left knee issues, but he has shown significant improvement in his at-bat. Manager Roberts spoke to Ohtani before the team's workout session, likening the situation to that of Freddie Freeman, who took time off during the postseason last year for a sprained ankle and bone bruise.

Ohtani emphasized that he bears full responsibility for any injuries and reiterated his commitment to the team. Ohtani played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' NLCS sweep of Milwaukee last season, batting .357 and leading the team to victory in Game 4.