Dodgers Face Challenges in Pursuit of Historic Three-Peat

The Los Angeles Dodgers are grappling with difficulties in their quest for Major League Baseball’s first three-peat in 26 years. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers move closer to their first National League pennant since 1982, following a 7-4 victory over the Dodgers in Game 2 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) on Monday.

Shohei Ohtani, a four-time MVP, has been central to the Dodgers’ woes. In Game 2, Ohtani went 0-for-4, striking out twice. Throughout the NLCS, he has struggled with a 1-for-7 performance, including one walk and three strikeouts. Over the entire 2026 playoffs, Ohtani’s record stands at 3-for-20, without any home runs or RBIs, accompanied by three walks and seven strikeouts.

With Game 3 of the series set for Wednesday night, there are considerations within the team to bench Ohtani. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on this potential decision, acknowledging Ohtani’s challenges and the need for a discussion on how to move forward. Roberts stated, “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.”

Reports from Katie Woo and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic suggest that Josue De Paula, a rookie, is the top candidate to take over as the team’s designated hitter should Ohtani be benched.

Injuries have plagued Ohtani throughout the year, notably missing two weeks in September due to issues with his left knee and right biceps. Alden Gonzalez, a baseball reporter for ESPN, indicated that Ohtani would continue to play if he considers himself fit to do so. A source within the team confirmed that Ohtani would only be benched if he felt hindered by his previous injuries. If he deems himself healthy enough, he will remain in the lineup.