Shohei Ohtani, the reigning MVP of the World Baseball Classic, has returned to represent Japan in the 2026 tournament taking place from March 5 to 17 in Tokyo and Miami. As Japan defends its title, fans worldwide can watch Ohtani’s performance as the designated hitter across key games in Tokyo Dome and Miami’s LoanDepot Park.
Japan’s Path in the 2026 World Baseball Classic
Ohtani is leading the defending champion Japanese team in Pool C at the Tokyo Dome, where Japan will face Australia, Chinese Taipei, Czechia, and the Republic of Korea. Unlike previous tournaments, Ohtani will focus exclusively on designated hitter duties and will not pitch during this event.
Japan’s group stage schedule features:
- March 6, 19:00 – Japan vs. Chinese Taipei
- March 7, 19:00 – Republic of Korea vs. Japan
- March 8, 19:00 – Australia vs. Japan
- March 10, 19:00 – Czechia vs. Japan
Assuming Japan wins their group, the team will move on to the quarter-finals in Miami, Florida, where they are expected to face either winner or runner-up teams from Pool D at LoanDepot Park.
The knockout rounds are scheduled as follows:
- March 13, 18:30 – Quarter-final: Runner-up Pool C vs. Winner Pool D
- March 14, 21:00 – Quarter-final: Runner-up Pool D vs. Winner Pool C
- March 15, 20:00 – Semi-final: TBD vs. TBD
- March 16, 20:00 – Semi-final: TBD vs. TBD
- March 17, 20:00 – Final: TBD vs. TBD
Where to Watch the 2026 World Baseball Classic Live
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will be broadcast globally, ensuring accessibility for fans eager to follow Shohei Ohtani’s World Baseball Classic journey. In the United States, Fox Sports holds the rights to air all 47 games live.
Japanese viewers can stream matches via Netflix, while Canada’s broadcasts will be available through Sportsnet (English) and TVA Sports (French). ESPN will provide coverage across Oceania, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Netherlands, among other regions. Audience availability may vary due to geo-restrictions.
The Significance of Shohei Ohtani’s Return
Ohtani’s presence in the tournament represents a beacon of hope and determination for Japan’s quest to defend its championship title. As a unique player known for excelling both as a pitcher and hitter, his decision to focus on batting highlights the strategic approach Japan is taking in this edition. Fans worldwide will keenly watch his performance and Japan’s progress, especially given the team’s strong chances to advance to the late stages of the Classic.
Following the tournament live through official broadcasters and online platforms offers a chance to witness some of the highest-caliber baseball talent in international competition, with Ohtani as the centerpiece of excitement across Tokyo and Miami venues.
