GLENDALE, Ariz. — Shohei Ohtani is slated to participate in a few Cactus League contests for the reigning two-time World Series victors, the Los Angeles Dodgers, prior to his departure from the desert region to represent Japan in the World Baseball Classic.
He commenced batting first in the lineup, occupying the role of designated hitter, and was expected to have two or three plate appearances for the team’s inaugural spring training match on Saturday afternoon, facing the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
“Occasionally, he takes two swings and feels content, or he desires that third opportunity at the plate,” stated manager Dave Roberts.
Queried regarding Ohtani’s itinerary, Roberts offered a grin, remarking, “I gave my word I’d endeavor to do so.”
Ohtani is slated to face batters in a live session on Sunday — and Roberts has previously expressed that the 31-year-old versatile athlete is anticipated to contend for the Cy Young Award during the current campaign.
“I’m aware it will be shortly. He will participate in a few Cactus League contests, however, I’m uncertain of his precise flight date. He hasn’t disclosed it,” Roberts commented. “Consequently, I am unaware of the specific day he will link up with Team Japan.”
Furthermore, the right-handed pitcher, current World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, was set to commence pitching for two frames and approximately 35 throws in his sole appearance for the Dodgers before he too links up with the Japanese squad for the WBC.
“It’s clear that with him departing to pitch for Team Japan, he’ll be aiming to intensify his efforts and ready himself, so I believe it’s primarily about him securing early strikes, utilizing his secondary pitches, maintaining efficiency, and recording outs,” Roberts remarked.
Upon Yamamoto’s comeback to the Los Angeles training grounds, he’s initially slated for roughly four frames and 60 throws, as per Roberts.
Yamamoto, age 27, who secured a $325 million, 12-year agreement in December 2023, achieved a 3-0 record with a 1.09 earned run average during the Dodgers’ seven-match World Series confrontation with the Toronto Blue Jays — therefore, his exertion level following that superb October is something the Dodgers intend to observe diligently.
“I believe it’s incumbent upon all of us to consider exertion levels, both immediate and extended, and all related matters, which we indeed do,” Roberts stated.
Throughout his extraordinary World Series performance, Yamamoto fanned 15 batters and issued two free passes across 17 2/3 frames, conceding two scores and 10 base hits. He, alongside Randy Johnson, represents the sole hurlers since 1969 to secure three victories in a single World Series.
“I feel assured as there’s no precise formula for early acceleration translating to success,” Roberts commented. “Nor is there one for a methodical approach, with limited participation, leading to success throughout the season. There simply isn’t an exact methodology. I believe, for myself and for all of us, it’s about trusting the athlete, understanding he comprehends the requirements to prepare for a season and manages his own well-being. Therefore, for me, it’s a straightforward path to comprehend and accept simply having faith in him, relying on him.”