Shohei Ohtani comes off a historic and successful season; 2025 proved memorable for the Japanese star. He earned his fourth career MVP title and helped the Dodgers win consecutive titles. Now, his attention turns to his national team. He prepares to represent his country again, but his manager, Dave Roberts, has certain reservations. Roberts hopes Ohtani takes it easy. The manager prefers he does not pitch in the tournament.
Roberts refers to the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). Two weeks ago, Ohtani announced he intends to play for Team Japan. In 2023, he served as the undisputed captain. He guided his nation to the final victory, defeating Team USA in the championship. His performance in that tournament proved spectacular. He batted .435 in seven games, hit one home run, and drove in eight vital runs. As a pitcher, he also excelled, holding a 2-0 record in three appearances. He pitched as a reliever in the grand final and struck out Mike Trout for the final out. They deservedly named him tournament MVP.
The schedule puts pressure on Pitchers
According to the Firstsportz report, Japan will try to defend its title in the next edition. They expect another heroic performance from their great captain, but the Dodgers worry about his health.
Ohtani’s pitching remains a delicate subject. He suffered an elbow injury in August 2023 and underwent surgery, causing him to miss pitching in 2024. He only returned to his two-way play in June. In the regular season, he compiled a 1-1 record and posted a 2.87 ERA in 47 innings.
Dave Roberts was asked today at the MLB Winter Meetings if Shohei Ohtani is going to pitch in the World Baseball Classic đź‘€
“I don’t know, I’m hoping he doesn’t. … I would say, the thought is he’s probably just going to hit, but I don’t know.” – RobertsDo you think Shohei… pic.twitter.com/sArRL868HO
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) December 9, 2025
In the postseason, he increased his workload. Dave Roberts was clear in the winter meetings: “I hope he doesn’t do it. But I don’t know,” he said. Roberts trusts the player’s judgment, expressing: “He is very in tune with his body… But I would say the idea is probably that he’s probably just going to hit.”
The WBC schedule proves a determining factor. The tournament begins on March 5, 2026, and concludes on March 17, putting it too close to the season. If Japan reaches the final, they will get little rest, receiving less than 9 days to prepare. The debut against the Diamondbacks would happen too soon. Other Japanese pitchers are also under surveillance. Yamamoto and Sasaki could start with Japan. The Dodgers have not yet imposed official restrictions, and they expect a serious conversation with the players soon.
