🔥 HOT NEWS: Are Shohei Ohtani and Dave Roberts at odds over WBC pitching duties? The latest twist raises eyebrows ⚡ .NL

GLENDALE, AZ (February 23, 2026) — While the Los Angeles Dodgers look like a juggernaut on paper, the first week of Spring Training has been clouded by a rare public discrepancy between superstar Shohei Ohtani and manager Dave Roberts.

The “drama” centers on Ohtani’s role for Samurai Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC)—specifically, whether or not he will take the mound.

The “He Said, He Said” Timeline

The friction began during DodgerFest on January 31, when Roberts definitively told a room full of reporters that Ohtani would not pitch in the WBC, citing a mutual decision to focus on his hitting while ramping up for a full MLB pitching load in 2026.

However, the “drama” ignited just minutes later when Ohtani, speaking through an interpreter, appeared to contradict his manager.

• Ohtani’s Stance: “I have to see how my body feels and see what happens,” Ohtani said, refusing to shut the door on pitching for Japan.
• The Fallout: The conflicting statements sent shockwaves through Japanese media, with many wondering if the Dodgers were “forcing” Ohtani to stay off the mound against his will.

The Reality: Roberts “Promises to Try”

By the time Ohtani reported early to Camelback Ranch in mid-February, the tone had shifted from conflict to a delicate compromise.

• The WBC Decision: It was officially confirmed on February 2, 2026, that Ohtani will not pitch in the WBC. Insiders suggest the decision was ultimately tied to insurance complications, as Ohtani is entering his first full season back from a second major elbow surgery.
• The Compromise: To keep Ohtani’s arm ready for the Dodgers’ Opening Day, Roberts and the pitching staff have developed a “shadow rotation” plan. While Ohtani is in Tokyo and Miami for the WBC, he will throw live batting practice and simulated innings on his off-days to maintain his volume.
• The Quote: When asked about Ohtani’s departure date for Japan, Roberts joked, “I promised I’d try [to keep him as long as possible].”

Cy Young Pressure: Roberts Sets the Bar High

Adding another layer to the “coach-player” dynamic, Roberts has been incredibly vocal about his expectations for Ohtani the pitcher.

• The Prediction: On February 20, Roberts went on record stating Ohtani should be in the 2026 NL Cy Young conversation.
• The Strategy: To protect their $700 million investment, Roberts confirmed the Dodgers will utilize a six-man rotation for much of 2026, ensuring Ohtani consistently gets five days of rest between starts.

On the Field: A Perfect 2026 Debut

Despite the “miscommunication” drama, the relationship on the field remains productive. In the Dodgers’ Spring Training opener on February 21 against the Angels, Ohtani led off as the DH and went 1-for-3 with a run scored. He followed that up on Sunday by throwing two innings of live batting practice, hitting 101 MPH on the radar gun—a clear sign that any “drama” regarding his arm is purely procedural.

Dodgers “Pitching Plan” vs. WBC Schedule