Full Breakdown
Shohei Ohtani Will Not Pitch for Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
2/1/2026, 12:31:22 AM
Decision on Pitching Status
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that Shohei Ohtani will not pitch for Team Japan in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). This decision, made by Ohtani himself, allows him to focus on his role as a designated hitter during the tournament. Ohtani had previously indicated uncertainty about his pitching status, stating he would assess his condition as he ramped up for the season. However, Roberts confirmed that Ohtani's choice to refrain from pitching was made about a month prior to the announcement.
Background on Ohtani's Recent Performance
Ohtani, a two-way player, had a remarkable performance in the 2023 WBC, where he helped Japan secure the championship and was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. He recorded a 1.86 ERA and struck out Mike Trout to clinch the final out against Team USA. However, following the tournament, Ohtani faced significant challenges, including a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) that led to his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023. After missing the entire 2024 season, he returned to the mound in June 2025, posting a 2.87 ERA over 47 innings.
Official Statements & Responses
Roberts emphasized that the Dodgers would have supported Ohtani if he had chosen to pitch in the WBC. He remarked, “I wasn’t surprised, so I can’t even say I was relieved. Understanding what he did last year... it just seemed like the right decision.” Ohtani himself noted, “In terms of the World Baseball Classic, I just have to see how my body feels and see what happens,” reflecting his cautious approach to managing his arm health.
Impact on Team Japan
Despite not pitching, Ohtani remains a crucial asset for Team Japan as a designated hitter. His absence from the pitching rotation means that Dodgers teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take on the role of the staff ace. Yamamoto expressed pride in representing Japan, stating, “Wearing a Japanese uniform once again fills me with a deep sense of pride and responsibility.” Japan will begin its WBC campaign on March 6 against Taiwan, aiming to defend its title.
Criticism & Opposition
While Ohtani's decision has been supported by the Dodgers, some fans and analysts have expressed disappointment, wishing to see him utilize his full two-way capabilities in the WBC. The choice to prioritize his health over international competition has sparked discussions about the balance between personal health and national pride in sports.
What's Next
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, Ohtani is expected to be ready to pitch for the Dodgers, marking his first full season as a two-way player with the team. The Dodgers are optimistic about his contributions, given his impressive statistics from the previous season, where he hit .282 with 55 home runs and a 2.87 ERA as a pitcher.
