Dodgers shake up NLCS lineup, restoring Shohei Ohtani to leadoff with season on the line
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- One loss from elimination, the Los Angeles Dodgers restored Shohei Ohtani to the top of the batting order for Game 4 of the Nation
With the Los Angeles Dodgers facing elimination in the National League Championship Series, the team made a significant lineup change before Game 4 on Thursday night. Shohei Ohtani, who had been batting sixth, was restored to the leadoff spot. The Dodgers trailed the Milwaukee Brewers 3-0, needing to win four straight games to reach the World Series and secure a third consecutive championship.
Ohtani's batting average dropped to .182 in his last two games, including a 1 for 2 performance with a walk in Wednesday night's 6-2 loss.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Ohtani, noting his positive attitude and improved at-bat quality. Ohtani had dedicated extra time to working on his swing on Tuesday. The altered lineup also saw Mookie Betts batted second, Freddie Freeman at third, Will Smith fourth, Kyle Tucker fifth, Teoscar Hernandez sixth, Miguel Rojas seventh, and Andy Page eighth. Kike Hernandez remained in the ninth spot.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
