What happened: Dave Roberts confirmed Shohei Ohtani will start Game 3 of the NLCS. The decision closes a benching discussion that followed back-to-back losses to open the series.

Why it matters: Los Angeles faces a 2-0 deficit, increasing pressure on each lineup call. Keeping Ohtani in the order preserves a central bat after a quiet start to the series.

What to watch: Attention shifts to where Ohtani hits in the Game 3 order. His first at-bats will show any adjustment after the opening two games.