Shohei Ohtani Will Focus on Batting in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
Japanese star Shohei Ohtani confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, although with a different approach than fans are used to. According to statements from the Los Angeles Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, Ohtani will not pitch in the tournament. This decision is in response to the player’s recovery plan, who underwent a second surgery on his right elbow in 2023. The main objective is for Ohtani to arrive in optimal condition at the start of the Major League Baseball regular season. Ohtani demonstrated his worth on the mound before the injury, recording an ERA of 2.87 in 47 innings, with 62 strikeouts and only nine walks. His postseason performance was also notable, with a 2-1 record, a 4.43 ERA, and 28 strikeouts in four starts. Despite not pitching, Ohtani is expected to have a significant impact as a hitter, a role in which he will seek to contribute decisively to the Japanese team in its defense of the title.The technical team is confident that Ohtani will be fully cleared to pitch at the start of the MLB regular season, prioritizing his long-term health.The player left an indelible mark on the 2023 edition, when he secured the championship for Japan by striking out Mike Trout in the final at-bat of the final game.
Statements by Dave Roberts
