Shohei Ohtani Won’t Pitch in the World Baseball Classic—But Why? In a move that’s sure to spark debate among baseball fans, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will not take the mound for Team Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Ohtani will still participate as a designated hitter, his decision to skip pitching duties has left many wondering about the reasons behind it. And this is the part most people miss—Roberts hinted that the choice was Ohtani’s, made with an eye toward long-term health and preparation for the upcoming MLB season. ‘He’s not gonna pitch in the WBC, but he’ll be ramping up his arm for this season,’ Roberts explained, emphasizing the need to build on last year’s workload without overexertion. Ohtani himself had previously left the door open, stating at DodgerFest, ‘I just have to see how my body feels and see what happens.’ So, was this a personal decision or a strategic one? Is Ohtani prioritizing his MLB career over international play? Let’s dive deeper.
Roberts seemed confident in the choice, noting, ‘It just seemed like the right decision,’ but the announcement still raises questions. After all, Ohtani’s unique ability to dominate both on the mound and at the plate has made him a global icon. His absence from pitching in the WBC could be seen as a missed opportunity for fans—or a smart move to ensure his longevity. What do you think? Is this a wise decision, or should Ohtani have taken the risk?
Meanwhile, other Dodgers players are stepping into the international spotlight. Yoshinobu Yamamoto will represent Team Japan, while Will Smith and the legendary Clayton Kershaw will suit up for Team USA. Yes, you read that right—Kershaw, fresh off his retirement in 2025, is returning to the mound for his country. When Team USA manager Mark DeRosa called, Kershaw expected a coaching role, not a pitching gig. Talk about a plot twist!
But not all Dodgers stars will be in the WBC. Roki Sasaki and Andy Pages are staying in spring camp to focus on the 2026 season, while Freddie Freeman is sidelined due to personal reasons keeping him in California. Miguel Rojas, meanwhile, faces a frustrating repeat of 2025—insurance issues will keep him from representing Venezuela for the second straight year. ‘If I can still play in the big leagues for the Dodgers, why can’t I play for my country?’ Rojas asked, highlighting the complexities players face when balancing national pride with professional commitments. Is the system failing players like Rojas, or are these hurdles unavoidable?
As the WBC approaches, one thing’s clear: this tournament is about more than just baseball. It’s about loyalty, health, and the global impact of the game. What’s your take? Are players right to prioritize their MLB careers, or should international play take precedence? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
