Shohei Ohtani‘s plans have been accelerated, as he has already reported to Los Angeles Dodgers spring training-something that comes as a surprise given the team’s scheduled preseason program.
The first official workout for 2026 is not supposed to begin until February 13, yet the team’s superstar-along with several other players-has jumped ahead of the calendar.
With Ohtani’s intention to participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) already prompting faster preparations, his early arrival now confirms his full commitment to the organization that is chasing a three-peat in MLB.
When were players supposed to report?
Pitchers and catchers participating in the 2026 WBC are required to report to their respective teams’ camps no later than February 11, while position players must report by February 12 at the latest.
It was Japanese reporter Masaya Kotani who captured images of Ohtani at Camelback Ranch on Wednesday, where the two-way star demonstrated once again that he is a true professional who loves baseball-he even took part in a full pitching workout.
At 31 years old, Ohtani is entering his third season with the Dodgers, but this will be his first full season back as a pitcher since undergoing a second Tommy John surgery.
Dave Roberts himself commented during DodgerFest that the plan is for the Japanese superstar to be ready to pitch on Opening Day, while also confirming that Ohtani will not pitch in the World Baseball Classic-he will participate only as the designated hitter.
Even though his role in the WBC is limited, there remains some concern inside the clubhouse about the risk of injuries to players competing in the international tournament. Other Dodgers players such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Edwin Díaz, Hyeseong Kim, and Will Smith will also have reduced spring training workloads due to their participation in the World Baseball Classic.
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