Overview
- Shohei Ohtani said he is awaiting a decision on whether he will be allowed to play for defending champion Japan at the March 2026 World Baseball Classic.
- Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes said the club has not yet discussed WBC participation for Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, or Roki Sasaki and plans to talk soon.
- Reporting characterizes the Dodgers as cautious about releasing their stars, with discussions expected to include pitch counts and innings limits if they play.
- Manager Dave Roberts was quoted expressing a preference that pitchers rest for the 2026 season, reflecting the team’s focus on health after a long title run.
- Japan’s roster remains in flux with Yamamoto and Sasaki considered automatic picks if available, while the WBC runs March 5–17 and clubs cannot formally veto participation.