Por Renan Filho · 2026-10-14**Lead**
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed on Tuesday that Shohei Ohtani will start in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets, even as the two-way superstar continues to struggle offensively in the postseason. Ohtani, who hit .310 with 54 home runs during the regular season, has managed only three hits in 22 at-bats in the playoffs, with no extra-base hits and seven strikeouts. The decision to keep Ohtani in the lineup underscores Roberts' faith in his star player's ability to break out of his slump, but also raises questions about the Dodgers' offensive strategy as they trail the series 1-1.
**Context**
Shohei Ohtani joined the Dodgers in the offseason on a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, and delivered an MVP-caliber regular season. However, the postseason has been a different story. In the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, Ohtani went 1-for-12 with a walk and three strikeouts. In the first two games of the NLCS, he has two singles in 10 at-bats, no RBIs, and has been unable to produce the power that defined his season. Ohtani's struggles have been a major storyline, especially with the Dodgers facing a deep Mets pitching staff that has neutralized the Dodgers' top hitters. Mets ace Kodai Senga has allowed only one earned run in his start, while the bullpen has been effective against left-handed hitters. Ohtani, who bats left-handed, has been particularly vulnerable to off-speed pitches away. Roberts has shuffled the lineup around Ohtani, but has not considered benching him. “He’s one of the best hitters in the game,” Roberts said in a press conference. “We believe in him. He’s due for a breakout game.” The manager also noted that Ohtani’s presence in the lineup forces opposing pitchers to be careful, even when he is not hitting well.
**Analysis**
Roberts' decision to keep Ohtani in the lineup is a calculated risk. On one hand, Ohtani's track record suggests he can turn around at any moment. His regular season numbers were historic, and he has shown the ability to adjust mid-series. The Dodgers' offense has been inconsistent, with Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman also struggling at times. Removing Ohtani would send a message of panic and could damage his confidence. Moreover, Ohtani's ability to draw walks and work counts still provides value, even when hits are scarce. In Game 2, Ohtani walked twice and scored a run, contributing to the Dodgers' win. On the other hand, the Dodgers are facing elimination if they lose Game 3 at home. The Mets have a strong bullpen and a lineup that has been productive. The Dodgers need every at-bat to count. If Ohtani continues to struggle, it could cost the team a critical game. Roberts has been known for his loyalty to veterans, but also for making tough decisions. In 2020, he benched Cody Bellinger during the World Series. The difference is that Ohtani is a generational talent, and the Dodgers invested heavily in him. Benching him would be a major story. The decision also reflects the lack of viable alternatives. The Dodgers' bench includes players like Chris Taylor and James Outman, who have also struggled. Taylor is hitting .150 in the postseason, Outman was left off the NLDS roster. So Roberts is sticking with his stars.
**Sources**
This report is based on information from the Los Angeles Dodgers official press conference on October 14, 2026, including comments from manager Dave Roberts and team statements. Additional data on Ohtani's postseason statistics are from MLB.com postseason statistics and game logs. Analysis of team strategy is derived from pre-game reports from ESPN and The Athletic. No direct quotes from players were used beyond those publicly available from official team channels.