Dodgers Reinsert Shohei Ohtani into Lineup as Playoff Pressure Reaches Boiling Point
The Los Angeles Dodgers are turning to their superstar once more, inserting Shohei Ohtani back into the starting lineup despite a prolonged offensive slump and lingering knee and biceps injuries. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani will remain in the lineup against the Milwaukee Brewers, a decision that underscores the team’s desperate search for an offensive spark as playoff pressure mounts. Ohtani, who has been hampered by health concerns, is mired in a massive slump that has seen him go 1-for-24 (.157) with zero home runs in his last 24 games dating back to August 18. His power drought has become a major storyline, and the Dodgers are hoping that a return to the lineup will help him rediscover the form that made him a two-way sensation.nnDespite the struggles, Roberts remains confident in Ohtani’s ability to contribute. Roberts said his conversation with Ohtani left him confident that the designated hitter remained ready to contribute, despite the recent struggles. “He’s in a good place mentally,” Roberts said. “He’s working through some things mechanically, but he’s ready to help us win.” Mookie Betts, another key figure in the Dodgers’ lineup, acknowledged the frustration while expressing confidence that Ohtani can find his way out of the slump. “We all go through it,” Betts said. “He’s one of the best players in the game. He’ll figure it out.” The Dodgers are banking on that faith paying off as they look to claw their way back into the series.nnOhtani’s recent form stands in stark contrast to his previous postseason heroics. In the 2024 NLCS, he was named MVP after hitting .357 with three home runs, four walks, and five strikeouts — all three homers came in a memorable Game 4 clinch in which he also struck out 10 as a pitcher. That performance cemented his reputation as a big-game player, but this year has been a different story. His struggles have coincided with the Dodgers’ offensive inconsistencies, and whether Ohtani can rediscover his power and help Los Angeles get back into the series remains the biggest question heading into the game.nnMeanwhile, the Dodgers have also
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