Home / Sports / Ohtani Battles Ailments, Defies Doubts in NLCS
Ohtani Battles Ailments, Defies Doubts in NLCS
15 Oct
Summary
- Shohei Ohtani to play in NLCS Game 3 despite not feeling great.
- Ohtani has struggled offensively, with no home runs since August.
- Manager Roberts supports Ohtani's determination to play through issues.
Shohei Ohtani is slated to be in the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series, according to manager Dave Roberts. Ohtani has been managing multiple ailments this year and has expressed that he "doesn't feel great." However, he is adamant about playing, with Roberts stating the team is fully supporting his decision.
The Dodgers face a significant deficit, trailing the Milwaukee Brewers 2-0 in the best-of-seven series. Ohtani himself has struggled in the postseason, without a home run since August 18 and holding a 3-for-20 batting average.
Ohtani addressed reporters, attributing his offensive struggles more to mechanics than physical limitations. He detailed a season plagued by a knee issue, a biceps problem, and a neck ailment, which have compromised his performance. Roberts likened the situation to how he handled Freddie Freeman in a previous postseason, but noted Ohtani's strong conviction about his swing adjustments.
To improve, Ohtani has altered his pre-game routine, including on-field hitting sessions. He acknowledged responsibility for his results, focusing on reducing symptoms and moving better in his swing. The Dodgers' offense, in general, has struggled, prompting the team to rely on Ohtani's potential to reignite their performance.
