Brief

Dodgers move Shohei Ohtani to sixth spot in NLCS Game 3 lineup

Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani will stay in the lineup but moved down amid a slump and lingering injuries.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 15 Oct 2026 04:44:23 GMT

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will remain in the lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, but the two‑way star was moved to the No. 6 spot.

What happened

The lineup change was announced on Tuesday, with Ohtani dropping from his usual cleanup position to sixth in the order. The move comes as the Dodgers face a 2‑0 series deficit. Alongside Ohtani, catcher Will Smith slid to the seventh spot, while Kyle Tucker was promoted to the cleanup role and Andy Pages shifted to No. 5.

What the reports add

New York Post reported that the shift reflects Ohtani’s “injury‑hampered 3‑for‑20 slump” in the playoffs, the lowest slot of his Dodgers career. Bleacher Report added that Roberts described Ohtani as “very convicted” and “adamant” about feeling good enough to play, citing MLB.com. Both outlets note that Ohtani’s recent symptoms have “subdued,” and he took responsibility for his performance, saying the symptoms should not limit his hitting.

What was said

Roberts told reporters, per Bleacher Report, that Ohtani is “very convicted” and “adamant” about his readiness. Ohtani, speaking through an interpreter, said, “I take full responsibility… The symptoms shouldn’t be the reason I can’t hit,” as reported by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.

How it came about

Felo News previously covered the Dodgers’ consideration of benching Ohtani after a Game 2 loss (Dodgers weigh benching Shohei Ohtani after NLCS loss to Brewers) and highlighted his ongoing slump (Dodgers manager Dave Roberts sticks with Shohei Ohtani despite slump). Those articles noted Ohtani’s 3‑for‑20 playoff performance and a 22‑game slump dating back to August 18. The current lineup adjustment follows those concerns and the team’s 2‑0 series hole.

Key facts

Shohei Ohtani was moved to the No. 6 spot in the Dodgers’ NLCS Game 3 lineup. (nypost.com)
The Dodgers trail the Milwaukee Brewers 2‑0 in the best‑of‑seven NLCS. (nypost.com)
Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani is "very convicted" and feels good enough to play. (bleacherreport.com)
Ohtani’s playoff batting line is 3‑for‑20, his lowest slot in his Dodgers career. (nypost.com)