Shohei Ohtani Focuses on Pitching for the MLB Season
Miami – Japanese star Shohei Ohtani is continuing his preparation as a pitcher for the upcoming Major League Baseball season. Although he is focused on his performance with the Dodgers, Ohtani confirmed that he will not participate as a pitcher in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The Los Angeles Dodgers player held a four-inning live pitching practice session on Thursday. He faced batters from the Japan selection at loanDepot park in Miami, during the training day prior to the quarter-final match against Venezuela. During practice, Ohtani threw 59 pitches, facing 18 batters and striking out seven. This session is part of his preparation to return to the mound with the Dodgers when the regular season begins on March 26.Despite training as a pitcher, Ohtani clarified that his role in the Classic will be limited to offense. This decision was made in agreement with the Dodgers, to whom he wishes to show respect while preparing for his first full season as a two-way player with the team.I’ve been progressing with my own adjustments as a pitcher while participating in the tournament. I think I got good results in both volume and quality and I feel like I’m preparing well for the new season.
Shohei Ohtani
Ohtani indicated that the only possibility of changing this plan would be an emergency situation within Japan’s pitching staff, although it is not something foreseen in the current circumstances. The Japanese star pitched 67.1 innings last season between the regular season and postseason with the Dodgers, recording an ERA of 3.34 and 90 strikeouts. Meanwhile, Japan will continue its path in the 2026 World Baseball Classic with Ohtani as a key piece in the offense of the Asian team in the elimination phase of the tournament.For now, pitching in the Classic is not going to happen. It’s also a promise made to the Dodgers. The best thing is to contribute to the team from the offense.
Shohei Ohtani
