Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts met with the media at the Winter Meetings today. To no one’s shock or surprise, the Dodgers are hoping that their four-time M.V.P. limits his role in the World Baseball Classic to hitting only, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. The Japanese superstar had announced his participation on behalf of his home country a couple of weeks ago.
Dodgers Hopeful that Their MVP Plays in WBC As a Hitter Only
Dave Roberts said he hasn’t discussed the WBC with Shohei Ohtani yet, but the plan is for him to represent Samurai Japan only as a hitter.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) December 8, 2025
One of A Kind
The unicorn of baseball has already had two major surgeries in his major league career. This season, Ohtani took the unprecedented step of rehabbing his arm on a major-league mound. The Dodgers could not afford to lose his prolific offensive production while he worked on his arm strength. They must’ve struck the perfect balance. Los Angeles defended their crown, and Ohtani took home the Most Valuable Player Award…again.
No Restrictions?
The Dodgers can’t forbid Ohtani from pitching, but they can make clear their wishes regarding how he is used. Roberts mentioned in a previous interview that he would like to see an innings limit and openly wondered about “wear and tear” on the arm. There seems to be no limit to what baseball’s first 50/50 man can do as long as he stays healthy.
Future Prognostications
Roberts said that he fully expects Ohtani to join the starting rotation out of Spring Training this year. The Future Hall of Fame manager envisions 25-27 starts for his pitcher. However, there will probably be some innings modifications as well.
Apparently, Ohtani won’t be the only Dodger to represent Japan in the WBC. Roki Sasaki has also announced his participation.
A Balancing Act
The tug of National Pride is not the only ambitious desire baseball’s best player has. The two-way phenom has said he wants eight more World Series rings before he retires. Time will tell if he reaches that pinnacle, but it’s hard to bet against a unicorn.
Main Photo Credits: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
