Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Copyrighted by Sarah Morris, 2026

For the first time since Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he isn’t recovering from surgery. As usual, everyone expects Ohtani to achieve mind-boggling accomplishments in 2026.

Unlike the previous two seasons, Ohtani will be a two-way player for the entire season, barring an injury. Still, he can’t have a normal spring training because he will be on Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic.

During the World Baseball Classic, Ohtani won’t pitch for several reasons. After two serious right elbow procedures, Ohtani couldn’t get insurance as a pitcher. Also, he and the Dodgers want their medical and coaching staff to supervise his throwing progression. Due to his participation in the WBC, he may not be ready for Opening Day as a pitcher, but he should pitch in April.

While Ohtani used primarily two pitches in his outings, he will use his entire arsenal this year. In 2025, Ohtani was disappointed with his command, but it was better than that of most pitchers, who were returning from injuries. So far this spring, when Ohtani arrived at Camelback Ranch on February 1, he has impressed everyone with his increased velocity and improved command. Dave Roberts can see Ohtani being in the National League Cy Young Award conversation.

Since pitching is Ohtani’s love, it is easy to concentrate on it, but Ohtani is a major offensive threat in the Dodgers’ lineup, after earning two consecutive National League MVP awards. Currently, Dave Roberts likes Ohtani in the leadoff spot.

Ohtani is determined to be a factor on the basepaths by utilizing his speed. A year after stealing 59 bases, Ohtani stole 20 bases in 2025. This year, he wants to steal more.

All baseball players marvel at what Ohtani does daily. Being a major league starter takes much discipline and work, and being a major league hitter takes much discipline and work. Ohtani has done both at an elite level. Entering his 32-year-old season, Ohtani hopes to build upon his greatest of all time baseball player status.