Dodgers Notebook: Ohtani Shines, Smith Praises ABS, Yamamoto Bobblehead Frenzy

Shohei Ohtani dominates on the mound, Will Smith discusses MLB's new automated ball-strike system, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto's bobblehead night creates excitement.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:05pm

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In the Dodgers' latest game, star player Shohei Ohtani delivered a dominant pitching performance, going six shutout innings despite challenging weather conditions. Catcher Will Smith praised MLB's new automated ball-strike (ABS) system, noting umpires have been more 'locked in' since its implementation. Additionally, the team celebrated Yoshinobu Yamamoto bobblehead night, creating a 'Spiderman meme' opportunity with the Japanese pitcher and the actor set to play him in an upcoming film.

Why it matters

Ohtani's success on the mound is crucial for the Dodgers as they aim to have him contribute as both a hitter and pitcher this season. The ABS system is a major change for MLB, so Smith's positive feedback suggests it may be improving the accuracy of ball-strike calls. Yamamoto's bobblehead night highlights the growing popularity of international players like him in the league.

The details

Ohtani dominated over six shutout innings against the Cleveland Guardians, allowing just one hit and three walks while striking out six. Despite the challenging weather conditions, he said he was 'really good going into the game' and viewed the experience as valuable early in the season. Smith praised the ABS system, noting umpires have been 'more locked in' and there have been fewer overturned calls as a result. The Dodgers also celebrated Yamamoto bobblehead night, creating a 'Spiderman meme' opportunity with the Japanese pitcher and the actor set to play him in an upcoming film.

  • Ohtani made his first start of the 2026 season on April 1.
  • The Dodgers' game against the Guardians took place on Tuesday.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way star player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, known for his dominant pitching and powerful hitting.

Will Smith

The Dodgers' starting catcher, who has been a key figure in implementing MLB's new automated ball-strike (ABS) system.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

A Japanese pitcher for the Dodgers, who was celebrated with a bobblehead night at the team's stadium.

Donald Glover

The actor set to play Yoshinobu Yamamoto in the upcoming film 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie'.

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What they’re saying

“I felt really good going into the game. The condition— today's weather— wasn't great, but it was a good thing to experience this early in the season, so I'm going to charge it to experience.”

— Shohei Ohtani

“I think it's good for the game. I think honestly, the best part about it is I think the umpires are more locked in just from the get-go. There were a lot less overturned calls because they were locked in. The most important thing is getting the call right, and they're trying to do their best too.”

— Will Smith

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue their season, with Ohtani expected to make his next start in the coming days. The team will also likely continue to monitor the implementation of the ABS system and how it impacts gameplay.

The takeaway

Shohei Ohtani's dominant pitching performance, the positive feedback on MLB's new automated ball-strike system, and the excitement around Yoshinobu Yamamoto's bobblehead night all highlight the Dodgers' strong start to the 2026 season and the growing global appeal of the team and its players.