Dodgers Manager Returns Struggling Ohtani to Playoff Lineup

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts likely never imagined he would pull Shohei Ohtani from his lineup for a playoff series. Not even once.

However, after falling behind 2-0 in the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers while Ohtani struggled at the dish, a hard choice awaited before Game 3 at Dodger Stadium.

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The final call? Roberts is trusting his Japanese superstar.

"He's adamant he feels good enough to be in there," Roberts told reporters via The New York Post during Tuesday's off-day regarding Ohtani's left knee and right arm issues. "He's close to finding something with his swing. I feel great about it."

Ohtani has played as the designated hitter, yet he has slumped throughout the postseason. His batting average sits at a dismal .150 after going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in the Game 2 loss in Milwaukee. He also lacks an extra-base hit or an RBI in the playoffs.

Roberts sparked the debate over Ohtani's status for Game 3 following postgame comments to The Athletic on Monday night.

He ultimately decided the four-time MVP should get another shot after meeting with president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and general manager Brandon Gomes.

"He was very convicted that he is onto something mechanically," Roberts added. "He was adamant that he can help us, he's well enough to help us win a baseball game. So, that's all I needed to hear."

Ohtani, speaking through interpreter Will Ireton, stated: "The symptoms shouldn't be the reason why I can't hit. He said he takes 'full responsibility' for how he's played thus far in October."

These injuries are ones Ohtani faced during the regular season, with his arm requiring an injured list stint to recover.

But it has clearly hindered the slugger, who hasn't hit a home run since Aug. 18 – a drought Ohtani is not used to.

Roberts noted that his confidence in Ohtani has "never wavered," and this Game 3 decision proves that belief remains strong.

Will it work out in a game that feels like a must-win to get momentum back for the back-to-back World Series champions?