Dodgers Grapple with WBC Dilemma over Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki
As the Los Angeles Dodgers look ahead to the 2026 regular season, their vision might be to wrap their players in bubble wrap. After enduring the rigors of back-to-back playoff runs, the toll on an aging roster is undeniable. With the offseason looming, the focus is on rest and recovery. However, the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) in March 2026 has introduced a significant complication to these plans.
Key Players and Their Intentions
The situation becomes more intricate when considering the futures of three pivotal players: Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani has already declared his commitment to represent Japan in the WBC, a move that could impact his health and performance leading into the MLB season.
Yamamoto’s status is less certain. Having proven crucial for the Dodgers during their postseason run, the team may feel compelled to honor any request he makes to play for Team Japan. This is particularly significant given the impact he had as a key starter during the playoffs.
Sasaki’s Uncertain Future
Roki Sasaki presents a unique conundrum. The Dodgers face the option of blocking his participation in the WBC, especially after he spent a considerable portion of the previous season on the 60-day injured list. The team has yet to announce a decision regarding this matter, leaving many questions unanswered. While they cannot prevent Yamamoto from playing, they might advocate for a more cautious approach in utilizing him during the tournament, given the heavy workload he carried in the postseason.
The Stakes for the Dodgers
The stakes are high for the Dodgers as they navigate this challenging situation. For now, it is clear that Ohtani will participate in some form. The question remains whether he, alongside his fellow Dodgers teammates, will take the mound during the tournament.
There’s a palpable hope within the organization that Yamamoto might opt out of the WBC. His performance was instrumental throughout the playoffs, and he also led the team in innings pitched during the regular season.
Ohtani’s involvement is expected, likely as a hitter, but there’s an underlying wish that he may choose to limit his role to the batter’s box rather than pitching.
Sasaki’s Progression
Sasaki, who dazzled in the postseason by stepping into a closer role, still has areas for improvement as he continues to develop into a reliable starter. The offseason will be critical for him to refine his velocity and mechanics, key elements necessary for his growth.
As the Dodgers prepare for the upcoming season, the interplay of these players’ commitments to the WBC and the team’s needs will undoubtedly shape their strategy moving forward. The coming months promise to be filled with intrigue as the organization balances player participation with the pursuit of success.
