Shohei Ohtani is departing Los Angeles Dodgers spring training in Peoria, Arizona, to join Samurai Japan for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where he will focus solely on hitting. The Dodgers are prioritizing his long-term health after elbow surgery, ensuring he builds up as a pitcher without risking injury during the tournament. Ohtani expressed temptation to pitch if facing Mike Trout but understands the team's decision.
In Peoria, Arizona, Shohei Ohtani wrapped up his time at Dodgers spring training on Sunday, his final day before heading to the World Baseball Classic. The two-way star faced hitters for two simulated innings before taking batting practice, maintaining his dual workload despite plans to hit exclusively for Samurai Japan.
Ohtani reflected on a hypothetical championship scenario against Team USA, smiling as he considered pitching in the ninth inning. "Hard to say it," he said through interpreter Will Ireton, "but if [Mike] Trout shows up, it's tempting." Trout will not play for Team USA this time, but Ohtani recalled striking him out for the final out in the 2023 Classic title game, where Japan secured its third win with Ohtani performing both roles.
This spring marks Ohtani's first full year as a two-way player with the Dodgers following a second major surgery on his right elbow. The team paused his throwing last year during the Tokyo Series and separated workloads during rehab. Now, with Ohtani slated for the rotation on Opening Day, the Dodgers aim to avoid a repeat of his extended early-season buildup, where he faced live hitters only three times before Major League games.
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman explained the decision to limit Ohtani to hitting in the Classic, citing his recent surgery, October pitching, and goals for a deep postseason run and eight more years of pitching. "The competitor in him doesn't love it, but he understood it," Friedman said.
Ohtani plans live batting practice or simulated games during the tournament to stay sharp. "I’ll do everything in my power to make sure the quality and the volume are in a good place," he said. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized mindful workloads, similar to those for teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Japan's ace. "As a player, you just want to encourage guys to... go compete your tail off," Roberts noted. The Dodgers trust Ohtani's judgment to balance national duty and club needs.
