Shohei Ohtani Prepares for World Baseball Classic Amid Dodgers’ Workload Management

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar, is participating in a limited number of Cactus League games for the Los Angeles Dodgers before joining Team Japan for the World Baseball Classic. The Dodgers, two-time defending World Series champions, are also carefully managing the workload of pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto as he prepares for both spring training and his participation in the WBC.

Ohtani’s Spring Training and WBC Participation

Ohtani played in the Dodgers’ spring training opener on Saturday, February 21, 2026, against the Los Angeles Angels, going 1 for 3 with an infield single, a groundout, and a strikeout as the designated hitter. He is scheduled to participate in a couple more Cactus League games before departing to join the Japanese national team. ESPN reports that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is unsure of Ohtani’s exact travel date.

Ohtani is also scheduled to take live batting practice on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Roberts has indicated that the 31-year-ancient should be considered a Cy Young Award contender this season. Wikipedia details Ohtani’s impressive career statistics, including a 39-20 MLB record with a 3.00 ERA and 670 strikeouts as of the end of the 2025 season.

Yamamoto’s Workload and WBC Commitment

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who signed a $325 million, 12-year contract with the Dodgers in December 2023, pitched 1 2/3 innings against the Angels on Saturday, allowing two runs and three hits with three strikeouts. He initially believed that would be his only spring start before joining Team Japan, but later announced he expects to pitch again on February 27 against the San Francisco Giants.

The Dodgers are mindful of Yamamoto’s workload, particularly after his strong performance in the 2025 World Series, where he went 3-0 with a 1.09 ERA and struck out 15 batters in 17 2/3 innings. Roberts stated the team will be “mindful of workloads and short term, long term and all of that stuff.” Yamamoto expressed his desire to regain his form before joining Team Japan.

Ohtani Will Focus on Hitting in WBC

Shohei Ohtani will not pitch in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, focusing solely on his role as a hitter for Samurai Japan. MLB.com reports that this decision was made to ensure Ohtani is fully prepared for a season where he aims to excel as both a hitter and pitcher for the Dodgers.

Ohtani won tournament MVP honors in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, notably striking out Mike Trout to close out the championship game.