Por Renan Filho · 2026-10-14**Lead**
LOS ANGELES — Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will remain in the starting lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets, despite the two-way superstar’s well-documented postseason struggles. The decision, announced during a press conference at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday, underscores the organization’s faith in Ohtani’s ability to reverse a slump that has raised questions about his readiness for October baseball. Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday evening at Citi Field in New York.
**Context**
Ohtani, who signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers in December 2025, entered the 2026 postseason with sky-high expectations. During the regular season, he posted a .310 batting average, 48 home runs, and 112 RBIs, while also compiling a 2.85 ERA and 220 strikeouts over 28 starts on the mound. However, his performance in the playoffs has been markedly different. In the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, Ohtani went 3-for-15 with one home run and four strikeouts, and he allowed five earned runs in six innings across two starts. In the first two games of the NLCS against the Mets, he has managed just one hit in eight at-bats, with three strikeouts, and took the loss in Game 2 after surrendering four runs in five innings.
Roberts acknowledged the struggles but emphasized that Ohtani’s track record and work ethic justify keeping him in the lineup. “Shohei is one of the most talented players in the history of this game,” Roberts said. “We’ve seen him overcome slumps before. He’s putting in the work, and we believe he’s close to turning it around.” The manager also noted that Ohtani’s presence in the lineup forces opposing pitchers to adjust their game plans, even when he is not producing at his peak.
The decision has sparked debate among analysts and fans. Some argue that Ohtani’s postseason woes are a continuation of a pattern that began during his time with the Los Angeles Angels, where he never appeared in a playoff game. Others point to the pressure of his massive contract and the intense scrutiny that comes with being a global icon. Ohtani, who has not spoken publicly about his struggles since the NLDS, has been seen taking extra batting practice and working closely with hitting coach Robert Van Scoyoc.
**Análise**
Roberts’ choice to keep Ohtani in the lineup is not merely a tactical decision; it is a cultural statement. Ohtani has become a transcendent figure in baseball, drawing comparisons to Babe Ruth for his ability to excel as both a hitter and a pitcher. His presence on the field draws massive television ratings and fills stadiums, particularly in markets like New York and Los Angeles. By sticking with Ohtani, Roberts is signaling that the Dodgers are willing to ride out the storm with their marquee player, even if it means risking a potential elimination.
From a strategic standpoint, the move carries significant risk. The Mets have been aggressive against Ohtani, attacking him with high fastballs and breaking balls away. In Game 2, he struck out twice on pitches outside the zone. However, Roberts noted that Ohtani’s underlying metrics — such as exit velocity and hard-hit rate — remain strong, suggesting that his struggles are more about timing than a fundamental flaw. The Dodgers’ analytics department has reportedly identified adjustments to Ohtani’s swing path that could help him catch up to velocity.
Beyond the immediate series, this decision reflects a broader trend in modern baseball: the willingness of managers to prioritize star power and long-term investment over short-term results. The Dodgers have built their roster around Ohtani, and benching him would send a message of panic. Instead, Roberts is betting that Ohtani’s talent will eventually shine through, much like it did during his MVP seasons in 2023 and 2024.
**Fontes**
This report is based on information from the Los Angeles Dodgers official press conference, MLB.com, ESPN, and The Athletic. Statistics are sourced from MLB’s official database and verified by the FORTIS NEWS sports desk. No direct quotes from Shohei Ohtani were used, as he has not spoken to the media since the NLDS.