Shohei Ohtani returns to Samurai Japan for the WBC 2026

The four-time MLB MVP, Shohei Ohtani, announced he will wear Japan’s jersey again in the World Baseball Classic 2026. He reaffirmed his commitment to the national team after another historic season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, who captured back-to-back World Series championships.

Shohei Ohtani’s last WBC appearance was unforgettable. In the 2023 final, Japan faced the United States. The climax came when Ohtani battled his then teammate, Mike Trout, in a dramatic showdown. Ohtani dominated the at-bat and sealed a 3-2 victory, giving Japan its third WBC title. His performance earned him tournament MVP honors, with a .435 batting average, one home run, and eight RBIs. As a pitcher, he went 2-0 with a 1.86 ERA and 11 strikeouts.

Shohei Ohtani’s announcement and message to fans

On Instagram, Shohei Ohtani thanked fans for their support throughout the season. He confirmed he will join Samurai Japan in March 2026. The team will debut on March 6 at the Tokyo Dome, competing in Group C alongside China Taipei, South Korea, Australia, and the Czech Republic.

 

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Una publicación compartida de Shohei Ohtani | 大谷翔平 (@shoheiohtani)

Ohtani’s decision excites Japanese fans, but there is caution. The Dodgers prefer that Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki avoid pitching in the tournament. The reason is simple. The MLB season begins just one week after the WBC. The Dodgers are chasing a historic three-peat after winning in 2024 and 2025. Yamamoto earned World Series MVP honors in 2025, while Sasaki recently returned from a long injury. The organization wants to protect its rotation.

Japan favored with Shohei Ohtani leading

With Shohei Ohtani confirmed, Japan enters the WBC as one of the favorites. The presence of stars like Aaron Judge, debuting as Team USA captain, sets up potential high-stakes matchups. Still, questions remain about Ohtani’s role. Will he serve only as a designated hitter, or shine again as a two-way player?.

The Dodgers do NOT want Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, or Roki Sasaki to pitch for Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic 😳

Do you think they should be allowed to play in the WBC? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/3K8k4ar3GZ

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) November 24, 2025

According to Firstsportz, Shohei Ohtani’s return to the WBC strengthens Japan’s ambition to defend its crown. His decision also adds another chapter to the legend of a player redefining what it means to be a modern baseball superstar.

Shohei Ohtani’s commitment to Samurai Japan highlights his dedication to both national pride and global competition. Each appearance adds to his growing legacy, proving that his influence extends beyond MLB titles. The WBC 2026 will be another stage where Ohtani can show why he remains the face of baseball worldwide.