Samurai Japan
World Baseball Classic begins as Japan eyes repeat title
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The 2026 World Baseball Classic begins on March 5, with Japan's Samurai Japan aiming for a second straight title. While Netflix's exclusive streaming has raised concerns over accessibility, the team boasts a powerful lineup and pitching staff as a top favorite.
Shohei Ohtani conducted a four-inning live batting practice session on Thursday at loanDepot park in Miami. The session prepares him for the Los Angeles Dodgers' 2026 season while he focuses on hitting for Samurai Japan in the World Baseball Classic. Japan faces Venezuela in the quarterfinals on Saturday.
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Samurai Japan, which advanced to the final eight of the World Baseball Classic, held its first practice in Miami on March 12. The team arrived in the city that morning, with players including Shohei Ohtani participating in a voluntary session. Japan aims for a second consecutive title and will face Venezuela in the quarterfinals on Saturday (Sunday Japan time).
Samurai Japan expanded its 2026 World Baseball Classic roster with Tomoyuki Sugano and 10 other players on January 16, following the initial group of eight announced in December. Sugano, with MLB experience from the 2025 season, returns to the national team since 2017.
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Samurai Japan has begun shaping its roster to defend its World Baseball Classic title in 2026, with manager Hirokazu Ibata naming seven pitchers on Friday in Tokyo. Joining previously announced star Shohei Ohtani are MLB talents Yusei Kikuchi and Yuki Matsui, along with five Japanese league pitchers. Uncertainty lingers over whether Ohtani will pitch in the tournament.