Dodgers' Roberts Predicts Ohtani for 2026 Cy Young

Manager says two-way star will be in Cy Young conversation in upcoming season.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has made a bold prediction about Shohei Ohtani's 2026 season, saying the two-way star will be in the conversation for the National League Cy Young Award. Despite Ohtani's injury history as a starting pitcher, Roberts believes the Dodgers' plan to use a six-man rotation will help keep him healthy and allow him to compete for the prestigious pitching honor.

Why it matters

Ohtani is one of the most unique and talented players in MLB, capable of dominating both at the plate and on the mound. If Roberts' prediction comes true, it would cement Ohtani's status as one of the game's all-time greats and further raise the profile of the Dodgers as World Series contenders.

The details

After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023, the Dodgers have been cautious with Ohtani's workload, limiting him to just 47 innings last season. However, the two-way star looked sharp upon his return, posting a 2.87 ERA and 33% strikeout rate. With Ohtani set to be a full-time member of the Dodgers' rotation in 2026, Roberts believes the team's six-man rotation plan will allow the 28-year-old to compete for the Cy Young Award.

  • Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2023.
  • Ohtani returned to the mound for the Dodgers in mid-June 2025, making 14 starts and logging 47 innings.
  • Ohtani made four playoff starts in 2025, pitching 20 1/3 innings with a 4.43 ERA.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way superstar who has established himself as one of the best players in Major League Baseball, capable of dominating both at the plate and on the mound.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has made a bold prediction about Ohtani's potential to win the Cy Young Award in 2026.

Paul Skenes

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, who has quickly established himself as the best right-handed starter in baseball.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's fair to say he expects to be in the Cy Young conversation.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers (Dodgers Way)

What’s next

The Dodgers will use a six-man rotation in 2026 to help keep Ohtani healthy and allow him to compete for the Cy Young Award.

The takeaway

Shohei Ohtani's unique talent and ability to excel as both a hitter and pitcher make him a threat to win any individual award in baseball. If the Dodgers' plan to manage his workload pays off, Ohtani could cement his status as one of the all-time greats by capturing the Cy Young Award in 2026.