The decision comes with the defending World Series champions trailing 2–0 in the best-of-seven series. Los Angeles must respond at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, to avoid falling further behind in its bid to reach another World Series.
Ohtani has struggled at the plate during the playoffs, managing just three hits in 20 at-bats, with no extra-base hits and seven strikeouts. His recent performances have prompted questions about whether he should be rested for the decisive encounter.
Roberts backs Ohtani to rediscover his form
Roberts said he had spoken with Ohtani about his condition and confidence at the plate, adding that the four-time Most Valuable Player believes he is close to correcting the mechanical issues affecting his swing.
“He's adamant he feels good enough to be in there,” Roberts said, expressing confidence in the player's determination to contribute.
The manager also dismissed suggestions that he had independently decided to bench Ohtani because of his poor results. Instead, he explained that the discussion centred on whether the player felt physically capable of performing at his usual level.
Ohtani's position in the batting order has already changed during the postseason, with Roberts moving him down from his customary spot near the top of the lineup.
Injuries add to Ohtani's challenge
Ohtani has been managing lingering issues involving his right biceps and left knee. The problems have affected his production in recent weeks, although he indicated that his symptoms had eased considerably.
The Japanese star said he was concentrating on getting his swing mechanics back into rhythm and believed his progress was moving in the right direction.
His recent slump has been particularly noticeable because of his reputation as one of baseball's most dangerous hitters. Ohtani has not hit a home run since 18 August and has recorded only one run batted in across his last 110 plate appearances, according to the report.
The Dodgers will hope that keeping him in the lineup allows him to regain his rhythm when the team needs his contribution most.
Dodgers face pressure after falling 2–0 behind
Los Angeles entered the NLCS seeking another championship after winning the previous two World Series titles. However, consecutive defeats against Milwaukee have left the Dodgers facing an increasingly difficult challenge.
The Brewers, who recorded 103 wins during the regular season, are now two victories away from reaching the World Series for the first time since 1982.
The Dodgers have three consecutive home games available to turn the series around, beginning with Wednesday's Game 3. A victory would reduce Milwaukee's advantage and give Los Angeles a chance to rebuild momentum.
With the stakes rising, Ohtani's performance will be one of the major storylines heading into the contest.
Ohtani's response could shape the series
Roberts' decision reflects the Dodgers' continued faith in Ohtani's ability to influence a game, even while he works through a difficult spell.
The club will need more offensive production from its star players if it is to overturn the series deficit. For Ohtani, Game 3 represents an opportunity to answer the criticism with his bat and help keep the Dodgers' championship defence alive.