Dodgers Update: Pursuing Ohtani, Snell, and Edman

Dodgers Update: Pursuing Ohtani, Snell, and Edman showcases the latest developments surrounding key players in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. Notably, Shohei Ohtani has decided against pitching in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed this choice during a press conference, emphasizing that the decision was Ohtani’s own. Although the Dodgers would have facilitated his participation, uncertainties regarding insurance coverage for pitchers contributed to this outcome.

Shohei Ohtani and the WBC

Ohtani will still participate in the tournament as a designated hitter for Team Japan. Despite not pitching in the WBC, he is preparing to start on the mound for the Dodgers in the regular season. The previous year saw Ohtani miss the entire season following elbow surgery, which delayed his return until June.

• 2025 Performance: Made 14 starts with a 2.87 ERA over 47 innings.
• Postseason: Struggled with six innings pitched in three of four playoff outings.

Blake Snell’s Recovery and Preparation

Blake Snell is also focusing on his health as he prepares for the 2026 season. After experiencing shoulder inflammation early in 2025, he is adopting a more measured approach to his offseason training.

• Contract: Snell signed a five-year, $182 million deal.
• 2025 Playoffs: Limited opponents to two earned runs over 21 innings.

The plan for Snell is to be ready for Opening Day. However, if he misses that target, Roki Sasaki and Emmet Sheehan may step in to complete the rotation. The Dodgers are likely to utilize a broader pool of starters, considering the injury histories of their pitching staff.

Tommy Edman’s Recovery Journey

Tommy Edman is also taking a gradual approach this offseason. He is recovering from recent ankle surgery, which included ligament repair and the removal of bone spurs. Edman acknowledged that these issues have impacted his performance both as a baserunner and while defending various positions on the field.

• Season Limitations: Edman played only 134 games in his first two years with the Dodgers.
• Power and Speed: He has hit 19 home runs but experienced a significant decline in stolen bases, dropping from 27+ stolen bases in previous seasons to just nine.

Edman’s readiness for Opening Day remains uncertain. He is committed to his recovery, aiming for a complete return to form before rejoining the lineup. His performance and health will be pivotal for the Dodgers as they prepare for the 2026 season.