Ohtani Restricts 2026 WBC Role to Hitting to Protect Pitching Comeback
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani will suit up for Team Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic but will not pitch. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the decision on Saturday, noting that Ohtani will serve strictly as a designated hitter to preserve his arm for the upcoming MLB season.
Past Injuries Influence Current Strategy for Two-Way Star
This cautious approach follows a turbulent period for the global icon, Ohtani led Japan to victory in the 2023 tournament where he earned MVP honors. He famously struck out his teammate to end that championship game, however he suffered a torn ligament just months later. This injury required his second major elbow reconstruction in September 2024, the recovery process sidelined him from the mound for over a year. While he returned to pitching in June 2025, his workload remains a critical concern for the Dodgers organization. The team wants to ensure he remains healthy for a full 162-game schedule, this makes preservation during exhibition games a top priority for all parties involved.
Roberts Confirms Roster Move to Prioritize Regular Season Health
The decision for Ohtani to forego pitching duties came directly from the player himself, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced the news at DodgerFest. He explained that the organization fully supports this strategy, the primary objective is to allow Ohtani to focus on his mechanics without the high intensity of tournament pitching. Roberts clarified that Ohtani will still participate as a designated hitter, this role allows him to contribute offensively without stressing his throwing arm. The manager emphasized that the goal is a complete return to two-way dominance when the official season begins.
Pitching Plans for 2026 Season
Ohtani aims to pitch significantly more innings this year compared to his limited 2025 campaign, he threw 47 innings last season and made four starts in the playoffs. The team plans to increase his workload carefully, they expect his total innings to be well above last year's count. While he will not pitch in the World Baseball Classic, other roster decisions affect the Dodgers. Teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto will pitch for Japan, conversely Roki Sasaki will miss the tournament entirely due to a shoulder issue. This plan ensures Ohtani enters April ready to perform as a full-time starter.
Team Japan Loses Ace While Dodgers Gain Security
The Japanese national team must defend their title without their most dominant arm on the mound, they will rely heavily on other starters like Yamamoto to fill the void. Meanwhile, Dodgers fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their biggest investment faces less risk of re-injury during the spring. The compromise allows Ohtani to represent his country with his bat, he still provides massive offensive value to the lineup and leadership in the clubhouse.
The baseball world now looks toward the tournament to see if Japan can repeat as champions without their ace. Officials urge fans to support the team despite the roster changes, the MLB season begins shortly after the final game concludes.
