Tue Oct 07 00:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for Game 2 of their NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies. Manager Dave Roberts provided updates on the team’s roster. Catcher Will Smith, who has been sidelined with a hand injury, is likely to start Game 3. Shohei Ohtani will start Game 5 if necessary and won’t be used in the bullpen before then. Tyler Glasnow is expected to start Game 4, despite a recent relief appearance.

**News Article:**

**Dodgers Eye Smith Return, Restrict Ohtani’s Bullpen Use in NLDS**

Los Angeles, CA – Following their Game 1 victory against the Philadelphia Phillies, the Los Angeles Dodgers are strategizing for the remainder of the NLDS. Manager Dave Roberts revealed key roster decisions that could impact the series.

The biggest news is the potential return of catcher Will Smith to the starting lineup. Smith, who has been recovering from a hairline fracture in his hand sustained in early September, is expected to start Game 3 behind the plate. While Ben Rortvedt has filled in admirably in Smith’s absence, Smith’s offensive prowess provides a significant boost to the Dodgers’ lineup.

Roberts also clarified Shohei Ohtani’s role for the remainder of the series. The two-way superstar will start Game 5 if the series extends that far, but will not be available out of the bullpen prior to that game. Roberts cited Ohtani’s already heavy workload as the reason for limiting his bullpen availability. The complexities of the “Shohei Ohtani rule,” which allows a starting pitcher to remain in the game as the designated hitter after being removed from the mound, further complicate using him in relief.

As for the pitching rotation, Blake Snell will start Game 2, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto slated for Game 3. Tyler Glasnow is expected to start Game 4, despite pitching in relief earlier in the series. Ohtani is penciled in to start Game 5.

The Dodgers are hoping these strategic moves will propel them further into the postseason as they seek their first World Series title since 2020.

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