Shohei Ohtani impressed the audience with his dominant batting practice before the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), smashing multiple home runs that electrified the crowd at the Vantelin Dome in Nagoya. This display of power by the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way star has heightened anticipation for Team Japan‘s title defense in the international tournament.
Preparing to defend their 2023 WBC championship, Team Japan held an exhibition game against the Chunichi Dragons of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Before the matchup, Ohtani took center stage in a live batting practice session, drawing a packed stadium filled with excited fans eager to witness his hitting prowess.
Videos shared on social media captured Ohtani repeatedly launching the ball deep into the stands, eliciting cheers and astonishment from both spectators and opponents. From inside the Dragons’ dugout, players were seen recording his swings, some visibly amazed by his performance.
Shohei Ohtani put on a show in Japan for fans and fellow players pic.twitter.com/Nkfw5V8WRz— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 27, 2026
Although Ohtani showcased his batting talents spectacularly during the pregame session, he did not participate in the exhibition contest itself, as MLB players were not eligible to play before WBC camp opened. Despite his absence in the lineup, Team Japan secured a 5-3 victory over the Dragons, powered by Teruaki Sato’s three-run home run, who was recently named the NPB Central MVP.
Ohtani, along with other MLB stars, is scheduled to join Team Japan for upcoming exhibition games starting March 2 against the Orix Buffaloes before officially opening their WBC campaign against Chinese Taipei on March 6.
Questions Surround Ohtani’s Role as a Pitcher in the World Baseball Classic
With the 2026 World Baseball Classic just days away, speculation has grown regarding whether Shohei Ohtani will pitch during the tournament. Last season, Ohtani resumed his dual-role performance after missing the entire 2024 pitching season, going 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA in 14 regular-season starts for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025.
In the postseason, he pitched in four starts, including the decisive Game 7 of the World Series versus the Toronto Blue Jays, finishing with a 2-1 record, a 4.43 ERA, and 28 strikeouts. Yet, despite his capacity to contribute on the mound, team management has advised against him pitching in the WBC.
#Dodgers Dave Roberts said Shohei Ohtani will not be pitching in the WBC— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) January 31, 2026
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani will not take the mound for Team Japan during the tournament, aiming to preserve his health for the MLB season. This decision was met with curiosity by fans and analysts alike, considering Ohtani’s unique two-way abilities.
When asked about potentially pitching in a high-pressure ninth-inning moment during a championship rematch against Team USA, Ohtani responded with humor, hinting that the presence of former teammate Mike Trout might tempt him to take the field.
Hard to say it, but if (Mike) Trout shows up, it’s tempting.
Shohei Ohtani said through his interpreter Will Ireton
“If Mike Trout shows up, it’ll be tempting.”Shohei Ohtani, who didn’t receive insurance to pitch, was asked if he’d pitch in a big spot against USA in the World Baseball Classic pic.twitter.com/Bi7Eg9B7I1— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 22, 2026
In the thrilling 2023 WBC final against Team USA, Ohtani pitched a relief inning as Japan held a narrow 3-2 lead. In a tense moment, he faced Mike Trout, who was the captain of the American squad, and struck him out on a full-count pitch to clinch the championship.
This year, Trout is absent from Team USA’s roster, replaced as captain by Aaron Judge. Should a similar crucial scenario arise, a potential pitching matchup between Ohtani and Judge, both reigning MLB MVPs, could create one of the most compelling storylines in this year’s tournament.
Upcoming Events and Potential Impact of Ohtani’s Performance
Shohei Ohtani’s dominant batting practice has already set an exhilarating tone for Team Japan’s championship defense. His remarkable hitting display energized fans and fellow players alike, reinforcing his status as a central figure in international baseball.
While he will not pitch in the WBC, Ohtani will still contribute as a hitter, bringing his powerful offense to the team’s lineup as they face tough competition among the world’s best. His ability to electrify crowds and influence games with the bat will be vital for Japan’s pursuit of back-to-back world titles.
The upcoming exhibitions against the Orix Buffaloes and Chinese Taipei will offer a glimpse of Team Japan’s readiness, with Ohtani and other MLB stars aiming to build momentum ahead of the high-stakes tournament.
Shohei Ohtani put on a show in Japan for fans and fellow players pic.twitter.com/Nkfw5V8WRz
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 27, 2026
#Dodgers Dave Roberts said Shohei Ohtani will not be pitching in the WBC
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) January 31, 2026
“If Mike Trout shows up, it’ll be tempting.”
Shohei Ohtani, who didn’t receive insurance to pitch, was asked if he’d pitch in a big spot against USA in the World Baseball Classic pic.twitter.com/Bi7Eg9B7I1
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 22, 2026
