Shohei Ohtani returns to the leadoff spot, while Mookie Betts moves to the second spot, possibly becoming the "short-term optimal solution."

The Dodgers are still searching for a long-term solution to activate their struggling lineup, but have made a short-term decision to adjust the batting order: today, in the series finale where they shut out the Rays 3-0 at George Steinbrenner Field, Shohei Ohtani returned to the leadoff position, with Mookie Betts moving to second.

Ohtani went 2-for-3 with a double that showcased his speed, received two walks (including one intentional), and successfully stole two bases; Betts went 0-for-3 but contributed with a walk and a sacrifice fly. In the seventh inning, the two teamed up to create a crucial insurance run: after Ohtani reached base with a hit, he and the walked Betts executed a double steal, then scored on a timely hit from Freddie Freeman.

"It's not complete control over hitting, but it's a positive sign," Betts admitted, "yet every time I show some improvement, I fall into a 15 at-bat hitless slump. I've done all the adjustments—extra practice all day, post-game training, early cage sessions—I'm at a loss."

Since moving the struggling Betts to the leadoff spot on July 21 in an attempt to spark his bat, the results have not met expectations. Prior to the game, Betts had 8 hits in 43 at-bats (a .189 batting average) over the last 11 games, with an OPS of .498 and an on-base percentage of only .265. This adjustment may not be permanent, as manager Dave Roberts is evaluating the optimal lineup configuration, and the potential return of third baseman Max Muncy (who has been out for five weeks with a left knee bone bruise) as soon as Monday will also impact the setup.

"This is the short-term optimal solution," Roberts explained, "with Muncy coming back, catcher Will Smith needs a day off... today's lineup is only for the current situation."

Ohtani's performance during his time in the second spot has been inconsistent: he has 12 hits in 49 at-bats (.245 batting average) including 5 home runs, but has struck out 24 times in 56 plate appearances. When he was in the leadoff spot, he led all players with at least 200 plate appearances in the league with an OPS of .983, which is crucial for the Dodgers, who have struggled offensively in recent months. "He is willing to accept any arrangement for the benefit of the team," Roberts stated, "but leading off might spark a particular rhythm."

Betts' move to the leadoff spot has not produced the expected turnaround, and his OPS of .667, if sustained until the end of the season, would set a career low over 12 years (only Michael Conforto on the team has a lower OPS of .649). Roberts does not rule out further lowering his batting order while balancing lineup optimization with player psychology: "He continues to work closely with the hitting coach on adjustments. Mechanical issues can be fixed, but psychological pressure must be overcome—I'm doing everything I can to maintain my trust in him."