Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has made a significant decision amid the team’s 2-0 deficit in the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite Shohei Ohtani’s struggles at the plate, Roberts is choosing to retain him in the lineup as the team prepares for Game 3 at Dodger Stadium.
Speaking to reporters during an off-day, Roberts expressed trust in Ohtani’s abilities, despite his recent performance. Ohtani’s postseason batting average has dipped to .150, with no extra-base hits or RBIs so far. In their last game against the Brewers, he went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.
Ohtani has been dealing with ailments in his left knee and right arm, issues he has faced throughout the regular season. Nonetheless, Roberts remains optimistic, stating that Ohtani is on the verge of a breakthrough with his swing. Ohtani himself, through his interpreter, mentioned that his symptoms should not hinder his ability to hit and acknowledged his responsibility for his performance in October.
This decision follows a meeting Roberts had with the Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, and general manager, Brandon Gomes. The manager emphasized his confidence, driven by Ohtani’s conviction that he is making mechanical adjustments to improve his game.
The Dodgers’ designated hitter has not hit a home run since August 18, an unusual drought for the player. However, Roberts insists his belief in Ohtani remains unshaken, and his inclusion in the Game 3 lineup reflects this trust.
The upcoming game is critical as the Dodgers aim to regain momentum and continue their pursuit of another World Series title. The decision to keep faith in Ohtani underscores Roberts’ confidence in his player’s ability to perform under pressure.