Shohei Ohtani, Dave Roberts project confidence ahead of NLCS Game 3, even as injuries continue to stymie Dodgers superstar

Key Points:

• Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers' four-time MVP, has struggled significantly in the 2026 postseason, going 3-for-20 with no extra-base hits and seven strikeouts in six games, contributing to the Dodgers' 0-2 deficit in the NLCS against the Brewers.
• Despite considerations to rest Ohtani for Game 3 due to his ongoing physical ailments, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani will play, citing the player's confidence in his readiness and ongoing adjustments to his swing mechanics.
• Ohtani attributes his recent hitting woes more to swing mechanics than lingering injury symptoms, though Roberts acknowledged multiple physical issues affecting Ohtani, including upper body and knee problems.
• The Dodgers' handling of Ohtani's injuries reflects a challenging balance between respecting the superstar's autonomy and protecting his health, with the team choosing to allow Ohtani to dictate his recovery, a decision that may jeopardize their championship aspirations.
• While Ohtani remains hopeful for a resurgence, his ongoing physical decline underscores the inevitable impact of age and injury on even the most extraordinary athletes, posing a critical moment for both the player and the Dodgers franchise.