Dodgers Adjust Ohtani Role Amid Postseason Hitting Struggles

The Los Angeles Dodgers are adjusting their approach with Shohei Ohtani during the postseason as the star player deals with injuries and limited production at the plate. According to Dodgers Nation, Ohtani is expected to continue playing in every NLCS game and likely remain active through the rest of the playoffs.

Ohtani went 2-for-13 with two walks during the NLDS, according to Dodgers Nation. The Dodgers are managing expectations while relying on his ability to contribute in different ways despite discomfort in his neck, right arm, and left knee.

Dodgers manager Roberts said the team remains confident in Ohtani's talent after seeing improved at-bats during the NLDS. He also said time away from game action could help Ohtani recover physically and refine his swing.

"Outside of (Game 3 starter Chris) Sale, I thought he did a good job of controlling the zone. I saw some better swings," said Roberts, Dodgers manager.

Roberts added that he is focused on Ohtani's overall ability rather than only his recent offensive numbers. Ohtani is expected to receive rest between games while preparing for the next postseason series.

"There’s nothing right now I’m going to hang my hat on outside of, I just believe in the person and the talent. I do think that getting a couple days out of a game environment to kind of work on his swing, rest the body, rest the mind is a benefit. I’m just never going to count Shohei out," said Roberts, Dodgers manager.

The Dodgers are also planning flexibility with Ohtani's place in the batting order, according to Dodgers Nation. Roberts said Ohtani could hit anywhere from second through fifth depending on his workouts and baseball activities.

Roberts moved Ohtani to fifth in the lineup during Game 3 of the NLDS against Chris Sale before placing him fourth in Game 4. The Dodgers had been off since Thursday, giving Ohtani additional recovery time before the NLCS.

Roberts said opposing pitchers will continue respecting Ohtani as a dangerous hitter. During the NLDS, Ohtani drew a five-pitch walk in Game 4, stole a base, benefited from an errant throw, and later scored.

"If he’s in the batter’s box, he’s still a threat. He swung the bat well against these guys last postseason. Their memories — those pitchers, their memories are long.

Now it’s just up to Shohei to understand that and control the strike zone. They’re just not going to give in to him regardless of how he might be swinging the bat over the last couple months, in my opinion," said Roberts, Dodgers manager.

The Dodgers will continue using Ohtani based on his condition and recent baseball activities as they prepare for the NLCS.