Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Skips Pitching for Japan in WBC
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers star, has confirmed he will not pitch for Japan in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated definitively that Ohtani’s focus will solely be on hitting during the tournament.
Ohtani’s Decision on Pitching
Roberts disclosed that the decision was made about a month ago. This means Ohtani will not serve as a two-way player, a role he held during the last WBC in 2023. “If he wanted to pitch, we would’ve supported him,” Roberts added.
2023 WBC Highlights
- In 2023, Ohtani made two pitching starts for Japan.
- He closed the championship game against Team USA, striking out Mike Trout for the final out.
Ohtani’s choice to focus on hitting this year might reflect his aspirations for the upcoming MLB season. He aims to win his fifth MVP award and possibly become the first Japanese pitcher to win a Cy Young Award.
Future Goals and Challenges
At DodgerFest, Ohtani expressed his desire to excel in various areas of the game, stating, “Mixing it up” would be ideal. He mentioned ambitions to steal bases, hit home runs, and register strikeouts.
Roberts anticipates Ohtani will vie for the National League Cy Young Award alongside teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani’s previous performance in the World Series has heightened expectations for his upcoming season.
Recovery and Preparedness
| Year | Statistics |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 3.14 ERA in 14 regular-season games |
| 2023 Postseason | 4 games, 10 strikeouts in a win against the Milwaukee Brewers |
After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Ohtani returned to the mound in June of last season. As he prepares for the regular season, he is expected to resume “normal pitching” duties without restrictions, as per Roberts. Ohtani has already started his preparation with several bullpen sessions.
Conclusion
While Ohtani’s pitching role in the WBC may be off the table, his focus on the regular season underscores his determination to make history with the Dodgers. His strategy for the upcoming season indicates a commitment to maximizing his performance on the field.
