Brief

Dodgers weigh benching Shohei Ohtani after NLCS loss to Brewers

Manager Dave Roberts says a conversation with Ohtani is imminent as the Dodgers face elimination pressure.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:38:23 GMT

Following a 7-4 defeat to the Milwaukee Brewers that left the Los Angeles Dodgers trailing 0-2 in the National League Championship Series, manager Dave Roberts told The Athletic the team will have “a conversation” with designated hitter Shohei Ohtani about his status for Game 3.

Ohtani’s performance in Game 2 was his worst of the postseason, going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. Over six playoff games he is now 3-for-20, with three singles, two walks and seven strikeouts, while battling right‑arm and left‑knee issues that the club says keep him well below 100% capacity.

Roberts, who previously said he would “come to life” eventually, acknowledged that the Dodgers cannot wait indefinitely for Ohtani to regain form. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman added that “at some point, it’s going to click for him.” The team returns to Los Angeles with only two more defeats away from elimination and a single loss away from a 3‑0 deficit that only the 2004 Red Sox have ever overcome.

Prior to Monday, Ohtani had reached base safely in each of his first five playoff games. In contrast, his 0‑for‑4 showing in Game 2 marked a notable step back. The 32‑year‑old took batting practice on the field for a third straight day—a departure from his usual routine of indoor cage sessions—while coaches noted a positive look to his swing during those sessions.

Roberts expressed confidence that the Dodgers can still rally, saying, “Can we [come back in this series]? Absolutely. But it’s just, you want to get that first [win].” The conversation about Ohtani’s role comes as the team evaluates whether to keep the two‑way star in the lineup or consider a benching option to spark a turnaround.

Key facts

The Dodgers trailed 0-2 in the NLCS after a 7-4 loss to the Brewers. (nypost.com)
Shohei Ohtani went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Game 2, dropping to 3-for-20 in the playoffs. (nypost.com)
Manager Dave Roberts said the team will discuss Ohtani's status for Game 3. (nypost.com)
Andrew Friedman predicted Ohtani will eventually “click” despite current struggles. (nypost.com)