MILWAUKEE, WI – The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the brink of an early postseason exit, trailing the Milwaukee Brewers 2-0 in the National League Championship Series following a 7-4 defeat on October 12, 2026. Once celebrated for their dominance, the Dodgers now face a pressing challenge as their offense struggles to produce.
The team’s pitching staff, already experiencing difficulties, saw star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto fall short in Game 2, where he allowed a two-run single from Christian Yelich before being pulled after just 2 2/3 innings. This follows a similar fate for Tarik Skubal, who was removed after five innings in the series opener, which the Brewers won 2-1.
However, the Dodgers’ most pressing issue appears to be their hitting. The lineup is batting merely .193 this postseason and has struggled significantly with runners on base, managing only two hits in 26 attempts in scoring situations. In Game 2, the team recorded just three hits.
Ohtani to Play Despite Struggles
Among the struggling players is Shohei Ohtani, who has not been able to find his rhythm at the plate. The four-time MVP is contending with various physical ailments, including issues with his left knee, right biceps, and neck. Ohtani went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Game 2, bringing his postseason average down to .150 with no extra-base hits and seven strikeouts over 20 at-bats.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts considered giving Ohtani a rest but confirmed that he will remain in the lineup for Game 3. “I did speak to Sho, had a great conversation. He’s adamant he feels good enough to be in there,” Roberts stated, expressing hope that Ohtani is close to breaking out of his slump.
Despite the current predicament, the Dodgers have proven resilient in past playoff situations. In the previous year’s World Series, they overcame a 3-2 deficit against the Toronto Blue Jays to clinch the championship. As they prepare for a crucial Game 3, starting pitcher Blake Snell emphasized the need for momentum shifts. “A big thing is momentum. Once you shift it, especially at home, anything can happen,” Snell remarked.
The Dodgers will look to reclaim their offensive power and keep their championship dreams alive when they host the Brewers at Dodger Stadium for Game 3. The outcome of the game could determine whether the reigning champions will advance or face an unexpected early exit from the playoffs.
