Ohtani reveals decision about playing for Japan in 2026 World Baseball Classic
Weeks after winning World Series with Los Angeles Dodgers, he makes announcement on social media
Shohei Ohtani, a two-time World Series champion, will attempt to add a second World Baseball Classic title to his haul when he competes for the defending champions Japan again next year.
The 31-year-old superstar made the announcement on social media that he would again participate in the international tournament.
Ohtani is fresh off another spectacular season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was the unanimous selection as the National League’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
He helped the Dodgers complete a run to their second straight World Series championship.
It is unclear whether Ohtani will both hit and pitch for Japan, as he only returned to the mound for the Dodgers in June after recovering from elbow surgery.
The most recent edition of the WBC was held in 2023, and in the final, Ohtani struck out then-Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout to give Japan a 3-2 win against the United States. He was named the event’s MVP.