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Dodgers make desperate move with Shohei Ohtani as three-peat is on brink of collapse

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a dramatic lineup shift ahead of Game 4 of the National League Championship Series, moving Shohei Ohtani back to the leadoff spot after dropping him in the order during a recent slump. The two-way star, who had struggled with a .182 batting average and no extra-base hits or RBIs in the playoffs, returned to his customary position despite the team’s three-game deficit against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Manager Dave Roberts cited Ohtani’s recent improvement, including a strong Game 3 performance where he reached base three times and hit a 113 mph single, as justification for the change. The Dodgers are now fully committed to Ohtani leading their offense, with Roberts emphasizing the need to maximize his five at-bats in a potential elimination game.

Alongside Ohtani’s return to the top of the lineup, the Dodgers also adjusted other key positions, moving Will Smith back to cleanup after his two-run double in Game 3. Miguel Rojas started at second base, while Kiké Hernández took over at third, with Max Muncy and Tommy Edman being optioned to the bench.

Roberts framed the team’s mindset as one of urgency, stressing the importance of playing freely despite the high stakes. The lineup shift reflects the Dodgers’ desperation to turn their season around after falling into a deep hole in the series.

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