The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a challenging moment in their pursuit of MLB’s first three-peat in 26 years. Their hopes are dwindling as the Milwaukee Brewers edge closer to their first National League pennant since 1982, following their 7-4 victory over the Dodgers in Game 2 of the NLCS.
Central to the Dodgers’ difficulties is Shohei Ohtani, a four-time MVP who has been unable to deliver in the NLCS. In Game 2, Ohtani went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. His overall record in the series stands at 1-for-7 with a walk and three strikeouts. This forms part of a broader slump in the 2026 playoffs, where he has gone 3-for-20 without any home runs or RBIs, three walks, and seven strikeouts.
With Game 3 of the best-of-seven series scheduled for Wednesday night, the Dodgers are contemplating whether to bench Ohtani, a decision influenced by his ongoing struggles. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented after Monday’s defeat, stating, “Obviously, it hasn’t been good. He doesn’t feel great. It’s important to have a conversation with him tomorrow to determine what will be best for him and the team.”
Reporters Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic noted that should Ohtani be benched, rookie Josue De Paula is the leading candidate to replace him as the designated hitter.
Ohtani has faced injury challenges throughout the year. He spent two weeks on the injured list in September, dealing with ailments in his left knee and right biceps. ESPN baseball reporter Alden Gonzalez mentioned that the team plans to continue playing Ohtani if he considers himself fit. However, according to a source, the Dodgers will only bench Ohtani if he feels compromised by these injuries. “If he feels good enough to play, the plan is to continue playing him,” Gonzalez reported.
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