Image Source: ESPN
Ohtani is back at the top of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ lineup, with the team’s season hanging in the balance. Shohei Ohtani will lead off in Thursday’s National League Championship Series Game 4 against the Milwaukee Brewers, despite facing left-handed starter Shane Drohan.
The decision comes after the Dodgers fell behind 3-0 in the best-of-seven series. Los Angeles now needs one of the most remarkable comebacks in MLB postseason history to keep its hopes of a championship three-peat alive. As reported by ESPN, only one team has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit in a Major League Baseball playoff series.
Ohtani Returns to Leadoff in Critical Game 4
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had previously considered giving Ohtani a full game off to rest. The two-way superstar had been working through mechanical issues at the plate and appeared to be searching for a breakthrough during a difficult postseason.
Instead, Ohtani made it clear that he wanted to play. Roberts said the 32-year-old was “adamant” and “convicted” that he was close to solving the problems affecting his swing. Ohtani reportedly stayed at the ballpark until 9 p.m. during preparation and continued making adjustments during batting practice.
Roberts ultimately decided that Ohtani’s presence gave the Dodgers their best opportunity to generate offense. The manager said he wanted Ohtani to receive as many as five at-bats and help set the tone from the opening pitch.
In a lighthearted moment, Roberts revealed that he did not personally tell Ohtani about the lineup change. Instead, he simply posted the lineup and allowed the player to see it for himself.
Encouraging Signs Despite a Difficult Postseason
Ohtani’s Game 3 performance offered a few positive signs, even though the Dodgers suffered a 6-2 loss. He reached base with a walk and a hit by pitch, then lined a 113.5 mph single up the middle. He also flew out to the opposite field.
Those moments were not enough to change the result, but they suggested that Ohtani may be beginning to find better contact and timing. The Dodgers are counting on that improvement arriving immediately, because there is no longer room for another quiet offensive performance.
Ohtani is hitting just .182 during the 2026 postseason. He has collected four singles in 22 at-bats and has not hit a home run since Aug. 18. His recent struggles have been especially surprising given his regular-season impact and reputation as one of baseball’s most dangerous hitters.
Why the Dodgers Need a Major Offensive Spark
The Dodgers’ broader offensive problems have made Ohtani’s slump even more significant. Los Angeles has recorded only two extra-base hits across the first three NLCS games and owns a .572 postseason OPS, according to ESPN. That figure ranks near the bottom among teams that have played at least seven games in a single postseason.
The lineup has struggled to create pressure, sustain rallies and deliver timely power. Against Milwaukee, those issues have been magnified by a Brewers pitching staff that has consistently limited the Dodgers’ biggest stars.
Returning Ohtani to leadoff is designed to maximize his opportunities. Batting first could give him more plate appearances while also allowing him to influence the game before the middle of the order arrives. If he reaches base, the Dodgers will hope Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman can convert those opportunities into early runs.
Ohtani’s role is also symbolic. Los Angeles invested heavily in its star power and entered the playoffs with championship expectations. With the Dodgers facing elimination, the team needs its most recognizable player to deliver a defining performance.
A Historic Comeback Is Now Required
The Brewers have controlled the series from the opening game and are one victory away from advancing to the World Series. The Dodgers, meanwhile, must win four consecutive games to survive, beginning with Thursday’s matchup at home.
That challenge is enormous, but Roberts and his players are emphasizing the next game rather than the full deficit. A victory in Game 4 would not solve every problem, but it would extend the series and create a new sense of urgency for Milwaukee.
For Ohtani, the assignment is straightforward: provide quality at-bats, reach base and create momentum. Whether he can rediscover his power remains the central question surrounding the Dodgers’ postseason future.
“Absolutely, put him at the top,” Roberts said after considering Ohtani’s recent work and practice sessions. The Dodgers are trusting that confidence will translate into production when the stakes are highest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohtani
Why is Ohtani batting leadoff in Game 4?
Dave Roberts moved Ohtani back to the leadoff spot to give him more plate appearances and maximize his chance to help the Dodgers produce runs in a must-win game.
How is Ohtani performing in the 2026 postseason?
Ohtani is hitting .182 this postseason, with four singles in 22 at-bats. He has not homered since Aug. 18.
Who are the Dodgers playing in the NLCS?
The Dodgers are facing the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series. Milwaukee leads the best-of-seven series 3-0.
What happened in Game 3?
The Brewers defeated the Dodgers 6-2. Ohtani reached base twice and recorded a 113.5 mph single, but Los Angeles managed only limited offensive production.
