Dodgers Consider Benching Struggling Shohei Ohtani in NLCS Battle

The Los Angeles Dodgers face a significant challenge in their quest for MLB’s first three-peat in 26 years. The Milwaukee Brewers are one step closer to victory, needing just two more wins to secure their first National League pennant since 1982, after defeating the Dodgers 7-4 in Game 2 of the NLCS on Monday.

Shohei Ohtani’s performance has become a focal point in the Dodgers’ difficulties. The four-time MVP struggled in the series, going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Game 2. Throughout the NLCS, Ohtani is 1-for-7 with one walk and three strikeouts, and he’s hitting just 3-for-20 with no home runs, RBIs, three walks, and seven strikeouts in the 2026 playoffs.

As the teams gear up for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on Wednesday night, Los Angeles is contemplating benching the six-time All-Star. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented after Monday’s loss, remarking, “Yeah, I mean, obviously it hasn’t been good. He doesn’t feel great. I think for me, it’s having a conversation with him tomorrow, kind of try to figure out what’s best for him, what’s best for us. He certainly has earned that conversation and deserves it.”

Reporters Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic indicated that if Ohtani is benched, rookie Josue De Paula is the “top candidate” to serve as the team’s designated hitter, replacing the 32-year-old.

Ohtani has contended with injuries throughout the year, having spent two weeks on the injured list in September due to issues with his left knee and right biceps. ESPN baseball reporter Alden Gonzalez stated that Los Angeles “will continue playing (Ohtani) if he deems himself healthy.” A source specified that the team would only sit Ohtani if he feels compromised by the previous injuries. Should he feel fit to play, the intention is to keep him active in the lineup.