Dodgers May Bench Ohtani for Critical Game 3

The Los Angeles Dodgers are contemplating leaving Shohei Ohtani out of the lineup for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series after a disappointing performance in Game 2, which they lost to the Milwaukee Brewers 7-4. This defeat puts the Dodgers' chances of securing a third consecutive pennant in jeopardy.

Ohtani has struggled significantly, recording only three hits in 20 at-bats during the postseason, including an 0-4 outing with two strikeouts in the latest game. He has been dealing with a right biceps issue and has not pitched since June due to a left knee injury. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has already moved Ohtani down in the batting order and plans to discuss his status with him before making a final decision.

If Ohtani is benched, 21-year-old Josue De Paula may make his playoff debut. De Paula has shown promise as a bench player and performed well during the regular season. Meanwhile, the Brewers have announced left-handed pitcher Robert Gasser as their starter for Game 3, while the Dodgers are expected to counter with Blake Snell.