Dodgers Face Challenges as Ohtani Struggles in NLCS

The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing significant obstacles in their quest for MLB’s first three-peat in 26 years. Their situation is becoming dire after the Milwaukee Brewers secured a 7-4 victory over the Dodgers in Game 2 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) on Monday. This win puts the Brewers just two games away from achieving their first NL pennant since 1982.

A major factor in the Dodgers’ difficulties is the performance of Shohei Ohtani, a four-time MVP. Ohtani struggled in Game 2, going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. Throughout the NLCS, he is 1-for-7 with one walk and three strikeouts. During the 2026 playoffs, Ohtani’s stats are concerning: 3-for-20, no home runs, no RBIs, three walks, and seven strikeouts.

With Game 3 of the series set for Wednesday night, there are discussions about possibly benching Ohtani, a six-time All-Star. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged Ohtani’s struggles, stating, “Obviously it hasn’t been good. He doesn’t feel great.” Roberts plans to have a conversation with Ohtani to assess the best course of action for the player and the team.

According to Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, if Ohtani is benched, rookie Josue De Paula could be the primary candidate to step in as the team’s designated hitter.

Ohtani’s performance has been impacted by injuries throughout the year. He missed two weeks in September due to ailments in his left knee and right bicep. ESPN baseball reporter Alden Gonzalez noted that the Dodgers plan to continue playing Ohtani as long as he considers himself healthy. However, if Ohtani feels compromised by his injuries, the team is prepared to bench him.