Shohei Ohtani to participate in World Baseball Classic, but will the Dodgers star pitch?

Los Angeles TimesTuesday, November 25, 2025 at 3:05:42 AM
NeutralSports
Shohei Ohtani to participate in World Baseball Classic, but will the Dodgers star pitch?
  • 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.
  • This announcement is significant as it marks Ohtani's return to international competition, highlighting his commitment to his national team and the excitement surrounding his potential contributions to Japan's performance in the Classic.
  • The upcoming World Baseball Classic is generating considerable interest, with Japan and the USA emerging as early favorites. Ohtani's involvement could influence team dynamics and fan engagement, especially as he balances his role with the Dodgers and international duties.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Tatsuya Imai urged to sign with 3 MLB teams to take down Dodgers
NeutralSports
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.
Cubs emerge as fit as Tatsuya Imai rejects Dodgers superteam path
PositiveSports
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.
Shohei Ohtani Confirms Intent to Represent Japan in 2026 World Baseball Classic
PositiveSports
Shohei Ohtani, the star player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has confirmed his intention to represent Japan in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking his return to international competition for his home country. This announcement comes as excitement builds for the tournament, where Japan is considered one of the early favorites alongside the USA.
Pitcher Tatsuya Imai says he wouldn't want to join Japanese teammates on Dodgers: 'I'd rather take them down'
NeutralSports
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.
'Dodgers Rule': Graffiti artist Chaka and others draw inspiration — and murals — from World Series champs
PositiveSports
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.