Shohei Ohtani is baseball’s most transcendent talent, yet his humility remains as impressive as his on-field dominance.
When asked Wednesday about potentially representing Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, the Dodgers superstar didn’t assume his spot was guaranteed despite his iconic status in the tournament’s history.
“I’ve said this before as well—if I’m chosen to participate, it would be a tremendous honor,” Ohtani said, via DodgersBeat. “But first and foremost, I think I need to prove myself again this season. That includes my performance and standing as a player. I believe I have to show that I deserve it this year. So right now, I’m focused entirely on this season. Then, in the offseason, I’ll see how things develop.”
This is classic Ohtani. The man who delivered perhaps the most dramatic moment in WBC history—striking out then-Angels teammate Mike Trout to secure Japan’s championship in 2023—acting like he needs to earn his way onto the roster.
Let’s be real: there’s no scenario where a healthy Ohtani isn’t on Japan’s 2026 squad. The only legitimate question is whether he’ll pitch.
That’s where things get interesting. Ohtani is currently focusing solely on hitting for the Dodgers as he recovers from elbow surgery. He’ll need to successfully return to the mound and stay healthy before any decisions about his pitching role in the WBC can be made.
The tournament’s March timing creates another wrinkle. With games scheduled from March 5-17 during the critical spring training ramp-up period, the Dodgers might be cautious about how they allow their $700 million investment to use his right arm.
But who’s to say Ohtani couldn’t reprise his role as Japan’s championship game closer? That strategy worked perfectly in 2023. Imagine giving the ball to a fully healthy Ohtani in another high-stakes finale—it’s the stuff baseball dreams are made of.
For now, though, Ohtani’s keeping his focus where it belongs: on his first season in Dodger blue.
