Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Adjusts Lineup for NL Division Series Game 3, Ohtani Moves to Fifth Spot

Harlingen Weslaco Brownsville McAllen, TX, October 6, 2026 — The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a strategic adjustment to their batting order for Game 3 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves. Manager Dave Roberts announced the revised lineup, which notably shifts designated hitter Shohei Ohtani from his previous position to the No. 5 spot in the order.

This lineup change comes as the Dodgers prepare for a crucial game in the series. The specific reasons for the adjustment were not detailed in the provided information. Ohtani, a prominent player in Major League Baseball, has previously occupied different positions in the lineup for the Dodgers. The decision to move him to the fifth spot indicates a tactical approach by Roberts and his coaching staff for this particular postseason matchup.

The NL Division Series is a best-of-five-game playoff series, and Game 3 is a critical juncture for both teams. The Atlanta Braves are the Dodgers’ opponent in this series. The exact date and location of Game 3 were not provided. Information regarding previous lineup positions for Shohei Ohtani or the overall performance of the Dodgers in the series thus far was also not specified.

Further details on the full lineup, including the positions of other key players, were not made available. The strategic move reflects the ongoing playoff environment where managers often make lineup adjustments to optimize performance against specific opponents and in high-stakes games. The impact of Ohtani batting fifth remains to be seen as the series progresses.

Story summarized from the original created by CHARLES ODUM, Associated Press on www.valleycentral.com, see more information here.

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