Ohtani activated, returns to champs' lineup -- but not at leadoff

Shohei Ohtani has been activated from the 15-day injured list and returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup for Wednesday's game against the Padres at Dodger Stadium. Ohtani, who last played on September 7 due to lingering right biceps and left knee injuries, will bat second rather than his customary leadoff spot, with Mookie Betts taking that position. Ohtani returns solely as a hitter, having recorded a .902 OPS and team-leading 30 home runs on the season, while hitting .198 with 34 strikeouts in his 24 games before going on the IL.