Shohei Ohtani Prepares for World Baseball Classic with Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani, the two-way star of Major League Baseball (MLB), is set to participate in a few Cactus League games with the Los Angeles Dodgers before joining Team Japan for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Ohtani is expected to lead off as the designated hitter in the Dodgers' spring training opener against the Los Angeles Angels, where he will aim for two or three at-bats. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted Ohtani's readiness and expressed confidence in his preparation for the upcoming season, stating, "I promised I'd try" when asked about Ohtani's travel plans to join Team Japan.

ESPNSports Illustrated

Ohtani will be joined on Team Japan by Dodgers teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who recently signed a 12-year contract worth $325 million. Yamamoto, the reigning World Series MVP, is also preparing for the WBC after a stellar performance in the previous World Series, where he achieved a 1.09 ERA. Roberts emphasized the importance of managing workloads for both players as they transition from spring training to international competition.

ESPN

The 2026 WBC features a record 78 MLB All-Stars, with Ohtani and Yamamoto leading Team Japan in pursuit of their fourth championship title. The competition is expected to be fierce, particularly with the Dominican Republic fielding a star-studded roster that includes Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, and Juan Soto. Tatis, making his WBC debut after serving a suspension, expressed confidence that the Dominican Republic could defeat Team Japan, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.

Sports Illustrated

While the excitement surrounding the WBC is palpable, some critics question the impact of international play on players' performance in the MLB season. Concerns have been raised about the potential for injuries or fatigue as players transition between competitive environments. However, Roberts remains optimistic, stating, "There's just no exact science on ramping up early and success," emphasizing trust in the players' ability to manage their preparations.

ESPN

Roberts has reiterated the Dodgers' commitment to monitoring player workloads, particularly for Ohtani and Yamamoto, as they prepare for the WBC. He stated, "I think it's up to all of us to be mindful of workloads and short term, long term and all of that stuff, which we are." This reflects the team's proactive approach to balancing player health with competitive aspirations.

ESPN

As Ohtani and Yamamoto gear up for the WBC, their performances in the Cactus League will be closely watched. The Dodgers aim to ensure that both players are in peak condition for the tournament, which is set to commence shortly after their spring training games. The outcome of the WBC could have significant implications for the Dodgers, particularly if they face off against the Dominican Republic, intensifying the rivalry between the two teams.

Sports Illustrated

• “I promised I'd try.” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

ESPN

• “I think it's up to all of us to be mindful of workloads and short term, long term and all of that stuff, which we are,” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

ESPN

• “It's definitely what you look forward to as a kid. I've always wanted to do it. I just feel it came at the right time. Really happy it's going to happen. I just know it's going to be a beautiful experience.” — Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres Outfielder

Sports Illustrated