# Debate Rages Over Benching Ohtani in Dodgers NLCS

- Topic: sports
- Source: [Video published by Bleacher Report](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqq-QEUYiA0)
- Published: 2026-10-14
- Original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqq-QEUYiA0
- Language: en

## At a glance

- Ohtani, a four‑time MVP, faces benching rumors for NLCS Game 3 amid injury concerns.
- Dodgers trail 0‑2 in the series, prompting calls to boost offense by removing the struggling star.
- Manager Joe Torre has publicly stated he will not bench Ohtani, citing his contract and team importance.
- Critics point to Ohtani’s .150 postseason average and zero home runs as evidence of declining performance.

## Sources

- [Bleacher Report](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqq-QEUYiA0)

## The story

On a recent sports talk show, hosts debated whether Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani should be benched for Game 3 of the NLCS. Ohtani, a four‑time MVP, has struggled with a knee and biceps injury and has been criticized for limited defensive contribution. The hosts argued that benching him could improve the Dodgers’ offense as the team trails 0‑2 in the series. They cited Ohtani’s recent batting average of .150 in the postseason and his lack of home runs as evidence of declining performance. Despite the criticism, Dodgers manager Joe Torre has stated he will not bench Ohtani, citing the player’s contract and his importance to the team. The discussion also touched on Ohtani’s $700 million contract and the optics of benching a high‑profile player. Some commentators suggested that other players could step in to fill the offensive void. The debate highlighted the tension between player health, team strategy, and fan expectations during a high‑stakes playoff series.

> Summary by Daily Read Bytes. [Read the original source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqq-QEUYiA0)