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Ohtani Returns to Dodgers After WBC, Expected to Pitch Once Before Spring Training Ends
The two-way star will likely make one Cactus League appearance before the regular season begins.
Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:03am
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Shohei Ohtani has returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' spring training camp in Glendale, Arizona after Samurai Japan's loss in the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Ohtani is expected to make one pitching appearance for the Dodgers during their remaining Cactus League games, as the team hopes to have him stretched out enough to pitch 3-4 innings.
Why it matters
Ohtani's return to the Dodgers is crucial as the team prepares for the upcoming season. As a two-way player, his performance on the mound will be key to the Dodgers' starting rotation, especially with the absence of Blake Snell at the start of the season.
The details
Ohtani threw bullpen sessions while with Samurai Japan during the WBC, preparing to begin the season in the Dodgers' starting rotation. He recently threw four simulated innings facing live hitters, striking out seven. The Dodgers plan to have Ohtani pitch in one of their remaining Cactus League games, likely after first throwing a bullpen session.
- Ohtani returned to the Dodgers' spring training camp in Glendale, Arizona on March 17, 2026, following Samurai Japan's loss in the WBC semifinals.
- Ohtani is expected to make one pitching appearance for the Dodgers during their seven remaining Cactus League games.
The players
Shohei Ohtani
A two-way player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani is expected to be a key part of the team's starting rotation for the upcoming season.
Dave Roberts
The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who will oversee Ohtani's return to the team and his preparation for the regular season.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
The Dodgers' announced Opening Day starter, who will likely be followed in the rotation by Ohtani.
Blake Snell
A Dodgers pitcher who is not expected to be ready for the start of the regular season, making Ohtani's return and performance even more crucial.
River Ryan
A top pitching prospect for the Dodgers who will also be considered for early-season starts.
What’s next
The Dodgers will likely have Ohtani throw a bullpen session before determining when he will make his one Cactus League appearance before the end of spring training.
The takeaway
Ohtani's return to the Dodgers is a crucial step in the team's preparations for the upcoming season. As a two-way player, his performance on the mound will be key to the Dodgers' starting rotation, especially with the absence of Blake Snell at the start of the season.
