Shohei Ohtani Confirms Intent to Represent Japan in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Tatsuya Imai, a prominent Japanese pitcher, has expressed a strong desire to compete against the Los Angeles Dodgers rather than join them, particularly in light of the team's star players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki. This statement comes as Imai enters the MLB free agency period after being posted by the Seibu Lions, raising interest among several MLB teams.

Tatsuya Imai, a prominent Japanese baseball pitcher, has publicly rejected the opportunity to join the Los Angeles Dodgers, expressing a desire to compete against them instead. This decision comes as Imai enters the MLB free agency period after being posted by the Seibu Lions, opening up various potential landing spots in Major League Baseball.

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, representing Japan. However, it remains uncertain whether he will take the mound as a pitcher during the tournament.

Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, recently posted by the Seibu Lions, expressed his desire not to join his fellow countrymen on the Los Angeles Dodgers, stating he would prefer to compete against them. This statement comes as Imai enters the MLB free agency period, where he is expected to attract significant interest from various teams.

Legendary graffiti artist Chaka has collaborated with Nike on a large-scale mural project that celebrates the Los Angeles Dodgers' consecutive World Series championships. This initiative features various murals that can be found on a newly launched online map documenting their locations.