LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 18: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates a solo home run with Dave Roberts #30, to take a 1-0 lead over the San Francisco Giants, during the first inning at Dodger Stadium on September 18, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without superstar slugger Shohei Ohtani for the last week+ as he’s been dealing with a biceps issue that led to his IL placement.
Manager Dave Roberts indicated on Tuesday, before the Dodgers’ series opener with the San Diego Padres, that Ohtani will be activated from the IL on Wednesday.
However, in Ohtani’s absence, the Dodgers have implemented infielder Mookie Betts in the leadoff spot, and Mookie has been on fire at the plate, which leaves Roberts at a crossroads.
Dave Roberts Reveals Tough Decision Ahead with Leadoff Batter
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 03: Manager Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on during batting practice prior to the game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on August 03, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Dave Roberts indicated to the media on Tuesday evening that he isn’t entirely sure who will lead off between Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani when Ohtani returns from the IL.
“Dave Roberts said he is still debating who will lead off when Ohtani returns, but said it will most likely be dependent upon pitching matchups So, Ohtani vs RHP and Mookie Betts vs LHP”
It might be wise for the Dodgers to get Shohei Ohtani in a different role, as he’s been slumping over the past month+.
As for Mookie Betts, he’s starting to hit an offensive stride after struggling for most of the season.
It will be very interesting to see how Roberts handles Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani’s lineup spots in the last week of the regular season.
Dodgers reporter Bill Plunkett wrote (about the situation):
“Dave Roberts said “as of now” Shohei Ohtani will return to the leadoff spot when he comes off IL Wednesday but it’s something he is giving further thought to. Could be a case where Ohtani hits first v RH Betts v LH”
TJ French covers the MLB for Heavy. TJ is a graduate of the University of Georgia. He has 2+ years of writing experience.
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Dave Roberts Reveals Honest Mookie Betts & Shohei Ohtani Conundrum
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The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without superstar slugger Shohei Ohtani for the last week+ as he’s been dealing with a biceps issue that led to his IL placement. Manager Dave Roberts indicated on Tuesday, before the Dodgers’ series opener with the San Diego Padres, that Ohtani will be activated from the IL on Wednesday. […]
Dave Roberts Reveals Honest Mookie Betts & Shohei Ohtani Conundrum