Shohei Ohtani Moved to Sixth in Dodgers Lineup Amid Postseason Slump

The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a critical juncture, currently trailing the Milwaukee Brewers 2-0 in the 2026 National League Championship Series. At the center of the struggle is Shohei Ohtani, whose uncharacteristic postseason slump has prompted a significant lineup shift as the series moves into Game 3.

Ohtani has been moved to the No. 6 spot in the batting order. Through the first six games of the 2026 postseason, Ohtani is batting just .150 (3-for-20) with no home runs and no RBIs. His power drought is now approaching a two-month milestone, as his last home run was recorded on August 18.

has not recorded a home run since August 18 as he manages multiple physical ailments.

Physical Health vs. Postseason Performance

The drop in production coincides with lingering physical issues. Ohtani is currently playing through confirmed injuries to his left knee and right biceps—the same ailments that sidelined him for two weeks in September. Despite these limitations, manager Dave Roberts indicated that Ohtani’s presence in the lineup remains a matter of the player’s own confidence.

According to FOX Sports, Roberts stated that Ohtani was “adamant he feels good enough to be in there.” The manager described the decision to move him down the order as a “reset” intended to take some of the immediate pressure off the slugger while the team attempts to climb out of an early series hole.

The stakes for Los Angeles extend beyond a single series. This season marked the team’s 14th consecutive postseason appearance, a streak that ties the Major League record established by the Atlanta Braves between 1991 and 2005.

Navigating the Power Drought

Ohtani finished the 2026 regular season with a .275 average, 30 home runs, and 81 RBIs, a productive output despite the injury-shortened second half. However, the Brewers’ pitching staff has successfully neutralized his power in the NLCS, capitalizing on the swing mechanics that may be affected by his knee and arm fatigue.

By shifting him lower in the order, the Dodgers hope to find a spark from other parts of the lineup while giving Ohtani a different look at opposing pitchers. With the team facing a 2-0 deficit, the window for Ohtani to find his rhythm is closing quickly as the Brewers move closer to a series victory.

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