Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has moved Shohei Ohtani down to the No. 5 spot in the batting order for Game 3 of the National League Division Series, according to ESPN. The change comes as Ohtani continues to struggle at the plate in the series. ESPN reported the lineup move on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
Dropping a hitter of Ohtani's caliber to fifth is a notable adjustment for Roberts, who typically keeps the two-way star near the top of the order. Batting fifth places Ohtani behind the Dodgers' first four hitters rather than in his usual position among the leading spots. ESPN described Ohtani as struggling but did not specify his statistics in the headline and summary available.
The move signals that Roberts is looking to shake up the lineup as the series shifts to Game 3. Ohtani's placement lower in the order could change how opposing pitchers approach the Dodgers' lineup and how often he comes to the plate with runners on base.
What to watch next: whether the lineup change helps Ohtani break out of his slump and how the Dodgers' offense performs in Game 3.
