Roberts Weighs Sitting Ohtani as Dodgers Face Playoff Slump
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he plans to discuss a possible benching with Shohei Ohtani amid injury concerns and playoff struggles. Ohtani went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Game 2 and has a .150 postseason batting average. Rookie Josue De Paula would likely replace him if Los Angeles decides to sit the star.
Los Angeles trails Milwaukee 2-0 in the NLCS after a 7-4 Game 2 defeat. Ohtani went hitless in four at-bats with two strikeouts, lowering his postseason average to .150. He also has just one RBI since Aug. 19 and has not pitched since July 3, with injured-list time this season.
Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani is not feeling well and plans to speak with him about what is best for both sides. If the Dodgers sit him, rookie Josue De Paula is the likely replacement. De Paula debuted in September and has drawn two walks in three playoff plate appearances.
A decision to bench Ohtani could affect Dodgers fans, teammates, and MLB viewers drawn to star power. If he sits, rookie Josue De Paula may receive a high-pressure opportunity, while Ohtani could face more questions about his health and form. The choice may influence playoff interest and discussions about managing injured stars, though its main impact remains within the team and its fanbase.