Dave Roberts outlined the Los Angeles Dodgers' plans on September 9, 2026, saying Jose Depala will serve as the designated hitter in all three games of the series while Shohei Ohtani rests and recovers from right biceps soreness.
Roberts said the plan is to give Depala a runway for major-league at-bats, with a later evaluation possible for playing the field. He also noted that Depala has shown growth in baserunning and defense while his bat has remained established, adding, "I think he stole 30 bases 2026." Roberts compared Depala's calm demeanor with Will Smith's heartbeat and said he would not be overwhelmed by his major-league debut.
Ohtani's right biceps and arm soreness when he swings is the primary concern, Roberts stated, while Ohtani's knee remains sore but is not the main issue. The Dodgers plan to have Ohtani stop swinging for several days and then reevaluate him based on how he feels, without setting a fixed return timeline.
Roberts added that his expectation is for Freddy to return to the lineup on September 10 after receiving an additional day of rest for his right knee. Edwin Diaz is recovering from pitching on consecutive days and is expected to throw again on Sunday.
Roberts evaluated Blake Snell positively, particularly citing his curveball and fastball command, while acknowledging that Snell may still seek greater efficiency. A Sunday return to the rotation is possible for the recovering starter if things go well, and another pitcher will start one of the upcoming games.
Roberts said the Dodgers' priorities are to win the division, secure one of the top two playoff seeds and ultimately win a World Series championship.