The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for a unique start to the 2026 season, and at the center of the excitement is two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. Fans won't have to wait until the regular season to see the reigning NL MVP in a Dodgers uniform, as the team has confirmed that Ohtani will participate in a selection of Cactus League games before departing for international duty.
According to reports, Ohtani is scheduled to play a "couple" of spring training games in Arizona before he joins Team Japan for the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). This move ensures that Ohtani gets live competitive at-bats and finds his rhythm under the Dodgers' supervision before he shifts his focus to defending Japan’s title on the global stage.
Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers' Spring Training Plan
The decision to play Ohtani in the Cactus League is a strategic one for the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the primary goal of the spring is to ensure the health and readiness of their $700 million investment, the team also recognizes the importance of game-speed repetitions. By appearing in at least two games at Camelback Ranch, Ohtani can test his timing against major league pitching before the high-intensity environment of the WBC begins.
Ohtani’s presence in the lineup, even for a brief stint, is expected to draw massive crowds to the Dodgers' spring training facility. The team is carefully managing the workloads of their star players, especially those with international commitments. For Ohtani, these early games serve as a crucial bridge between off-season training and the high-stakes atmosphere of international competition.
Balancing the World Baseball Classic and MLB Goals
The World Baseball Classic remains a top priority for Ohtani, who led Japan to a dramatic victory in the previous tournament. However, the Dodgers are his primary employer, and balancing these two responsibilities requires precise scheduling. By playing in the Cactus League first, the Dodgers can monitor Ohtani’s physical condition and ensure he is meeting his performance benchmarks before he leaves the team's direct oversight.
The logistical challenge of the WBC often concerns MLB front offices, particularly regarding the risk of injury. However, Ohtani has proven time and again that he can handle the rigors of both international and domestic play. His commitment to Team Japan is a point of pride, and the Dodgers have been supportive of his desire to represent his home country while ensuring his preparation for the 162-game MLB season remains on track.
The Role of Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Ohtani isn't the only high-profile Dodger heading to the WBC. Fellow countryman Yoshinobu Yamamoto is also expected to be a cornerstone of the Japanese rotation. Like Ohtani, Yamamoto’s spring training schedule is being meticulously crafted to ensure he is peaked for both the WBC and the Dodgers' pursuit of another World Series title.
The synergy between Ohtani and Yamamoto has been a major storyline for the Dodgers. Seeing both players navigate the transition from Cactus League action to international play will be a focal point for scouts and fans alike. The Dodgers' coaching staff will be keeping a close eye on both stars as they transition between the different balls and rules used in the WBC compared to Major League Baseball.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
Once the WBC concludes, Ohtani will return to the Dodgers to finalize his preparations for the regular season. The early Cactus League games are just the first step in what promises to be a historic year. With Ohtani expected to contribute heavily both at the plate and potentially returning to the mound, every inning of work in March carries significant weight.
The Dodgers’ approach highlights a growing trend in MLB: embracing the global nature of the sport while maintaining a laser focus on domestic success. By getting Shohei Ohtani into the lineup early, the Dodgers are giving their fans a glimpse of the greatness to come while honoring the player's commitment to the global game.
- Ohtani will play at least two Cactus League games.
- He will depart shortly after to join Team Japan.
- The Dodgers are prioritizing a balance between health and competitive readiness.
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto remains a key part of the Dodgers' and Japan's spring plans.
Sources & Original Reporting
