Dodgers May Remove Ohtani From NLCS Lineup Wednesday
Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts is considering a lineup change for Game 3 following Shohei Ohtani's postseason struggles.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Baseball
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Should a star player remain in the starting lineup during a prolonged postseason slump?
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is considering removing Shohei Ohtani from the starting lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series this Wednesday. Ohtani has struggled significantly during the 2026 postseason, failing to record any extra-base hits or RBIs across his first six games.
Why it matters
Ohtani has experienced a sustained decline in offensive production that began late in the regular season. The team is now evaluating whether a replacement like Josue De Paula would provide a better chance at winning against their NLCS opponent.
Ohtani has recorded just 3 hits in 20 postseason at-bats, including a 1-for-7 performance during the NLCS. He has struck out 7 times while managing only 3 walks throughout his 6 postseason appearances.
The players
Shohei Ohtani
He is a primary offensive contributor for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is currently struggling with postseason performance.
Dave Roberts
He serves as the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers and is responsible for making tactical lineup decisions.
Josue De Paula
He is a position player being considered by the Dodgers organization as a potential replacement for Ohtani in the starting lineup.
The details
Manager Dave Roberts is actively weighing benching Ohtani, who was placed on the injured list on September 8 following biceps, knee, and neck injuries. If a replacement player performs well in Wednesday's game, Ohtani may remain on the bench for Game 4.
Timeline
August 18, 2026: Ohtani reached 30 home runs in his first 121 games of the season.
September 8, 2026: Ohtani was placed on the injured list for biceps, knee, and neck injuries.
October 2026: Ohtani recorded 3 hits in 20 postseason at-bats over six games.
October 14, 2026: Game 3 of the NLCS is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles.
Season Trajectory
This potential move indicates a significant shift in the Dodgers' strategy as they navigate the high-pressure environment of the 2026 MLB postseason. A change at this stage could fundamentally alter the team's offensive rhythm and rotation depth for the remainder of the series.
If Ohtani is removed from the lineup, the team's run production will likely shift toward other contributors like Mookie Betts. Fantasy managers and fans should monitor the official lineup card released prior to the first pitch to confirm if Ohtani is sitting.
The takeaway
Postseason adjustments are common when star players face significant slumps during short series. Managers must prioritize immediate production to maintain momentum and ensure the best statistical chance of advancing to the next round.
What happens next
Game 3 of the NLCS is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the team's postseason progress, see the latest Baseball updates.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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Should a star player remain in the starting lineup during a prolonged postseason slump?
