Dave Roberts said on October 6, 2026, that he is considering moving Shohei Ohtani down the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup to reduce pressure, potentially shifting him from first to second.
Roberts said Edwin Díaz could be used as the closer and called that “certainly a viable option for tomorrow night,” adding that he feels confident Díaz can finish a game. Díaz completed a longer rehabilitation assignment with Oklahoma City while rebuilding his confidence, and Roberts said Díaz’s last outing was “as good as we’ve seen him throw.” Roberts attributed Díaz’s return to trust to his character, resilience through injuries and rehabilitation, and willingness to accept any role.
Roberts explained that postseason decisions require quickly reading and reacting because “in October things happen quickly and you've got to be willing to read and react,” rather than relying heavily on a full-season sample. He noted that Freddie Freeman has looked healthier, is using his legs better and has sound mechanics after the break, while also saying that five days off was crucial for Freeman’s recovery.
Roberts said Ohtani’s struggles reflect limited game action, not being fully healthy and chasing outside the strike zone. He stated that Ohtani had five games and intervening at-bats before the postseason and acknowledged that “he's not 100%.” Roberts said Ohtani is committed to what is best for the Los Angeles Dodgers, adding that “whatever is best for the team, he's all in on.”
Roberts said he intends to continue giving Andy Pages an opportunity because “for us to win the World Series 2026, we're going to need him to be an active part of our team.” He added that he does not expect to sit Will Smith because “I don't see myself sitting Will Smith,” while lineup changes remain under consideration. Roberts also said Blake Snell’s family situation “won't affect his ability going forward” and that Snell remains with the team. The Dodgers are planning on Tyler Glasnow for Game 4, according to Roberts, who also referred to a possible total of 71 postseason wins, tied with Tony Larusa for second all time, if the team wins.