Shohei Ohtani returns to Dodgers leadoff spot for NLCS Game 4
New York Post • • sports
Key Points:
- The Dodgers have returned Shohei Ohtani to the leadoff spot in their lineup for Game 4 of the National League Championship Series after moving him down during his injury-affected slump this postseason.
- Despite Ohtani's struggles with a .182 batting average and no extra-base hits or RBIs in the playoffs, manager Dave Roberts believes Ohtani’s recent performance and mindset justify the move to maximize offensive production.
- Will Smith has been moved back to the cleanup spot after breaking out of his own slump with a two-run double in Game 3, while Miguel Rojas and Kiké Hernández start at second and third base respectively, with Max Muncy and Tommy Edman benched.
- The Dodgers face a 3-0 series deficit against the Milwaukee Brewers and are treating Game 4 as an elimination game, with Roberts emphasizing the need for the team to play freely and with urgency.
- The full Dodgers lineup for Game 4 includes Ohtani as DH, Mookie Betts at shortstop, Freddie Freeman at first base, and Tyler Glasnow as the starting pitcher.
