Roberts keeps Ohtani in Dodgers NLCS Game 3 lineup despite slump

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has decided to keep Shohei Ohtani in the starting lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, despite the star player's recent offensive struggles and ongoing physical ailments. The decision was finalized after a meeting between Roberts, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, and general manager Brandon Gomes, during which Ohtani expressed confidence in his ability to contribute to the team's victory.

The Dodgers enter Game 3 at Dodger Stadium trailing the series 2-0. Ohtani, serving as the team's designated hitter, has seen his batting average drop to .150 during the postseason. In the Game 2 loss in Milwaukee, he went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts and has yet to record an extra-base hit or an RBI in the playoffs. Roberts noted that Ohtani is close to finding a mechanical adjustment in his swing and remains adamant that he feels physically capable of playing. The manager stated that Ohtani is well enough to help the team win, a conviction that sealed the decision to keep him in the lineup.

Ohtani has dealt with left knee and right arm issues throughout the regular season, which previously required a stint on the injured list. Through his interpreter, Will Ireton, Ohtani stated that these symptoms should not prevent him from hitting and took full responsibility for his performance in October. The player has not hit a home run since August 18, a prolonged dry spell that contrasts with his typical offensive production. Roberts maintained that his confidence in Ohtani has never wavered, viewing the continued inclusion as a reflection of that trust. The Dodgers, who are defending back-to-back World Series titles, now face a critical opportunity to shift momentum in their favor.