The sound came first. A sharp crack, then another, echoing across the Tokyo Dome.
Shohei Ohtani has officially begun preparations with Samurai Japan for the World Baseball Classic 2026, and during one of his first batting practice sessions, he reminded everyone why he remains baseball’s biggest global attraction.
Japan will defend its title from March 5-17 across Tokyo, San Juan, Houston and Miami.
Group C will be played at the Tokyo Dome, where Japan faces Australia, South Korea, the Czech Republic and Chinese Taipei for two quarterfinal spots.
Before official games even begin, Ohtani has already taken control of the narrative.
A familiar scene in Tokyo
During early workouts, Ohtani launched multiple towering drives deep into the stands. Teammates stopped to watch. Coaches tracked every swing. Fans reacted with audible amazement.
It was batting practice. It did not feel like it.
Ohtani enters 2026 after winning three consecutive American League MVP awards and four overall (2021, 2023, 2024, 2025). According to official MLB historical data, no modern player has sustained elite production on the mound and at the plate at this level over multiple seasons.
Japan is not just building a roster around talent. It is building around the most unique player in the sport. His presence changes preparation, expectations and even global television interest.
Remembering 2023, Raising the Standard
Ohtani’s performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic still shapes the conversation heading into 2026.
He went 2-0 as a pitcher, recorded the save in the championship game against the United States, and hit .435 (10-for-23) with eight RBIs and one home run. He was named tournament MVP.
That championship game became the most-watched WBC final in U.S. television history, according to FOX Sports, while Japanese viewership numbers reached historic highs. The event elevated the WBC from a respected international competition into a global showcase.
Now, the dynamic has shifted. In 2023, Japan was chasing redemption. In 2026, it is defending a title.
The road begins at home
Japan opens its 2026 campaign on Friday the 6th at 5:00 a.m. ET against Chinese Taipei. Two teams from Group C will advance to the quarterfinals.
Team officials have emphasized structured preparation and workload management, especially given Ohtani’s demanding MLB seasons. Analysts in both Japan and the United States have noted that his early form suggests a player fully locked in.
Inside the Tokyo Dome, the reaction has already been telling. As one observer described it, “When he swings like that, the entire stadium holds its breath.” That atmosphere will only intensify once the games begin.
Tournament dates and host cities are based on official World Baseball Classic announcements. Player statistics and MVP records sourced from official MLB historical data. Viewership data referenced from FOX Sports reporting on the 2023 WBC final.
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