Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani set to play a couple of Cactus League games before joining Japan for WBC - AP News
AP News
February 21, 2026
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Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is set to play in a couple of Cactus League games before joining Japan’s national team for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). This move highlights Ohtani’s unique role as both an MLB player and a key figure for his home country. Known for his dual abilities as a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani will likely use these Cactus League appearances to fine-tune his skills ahead of the upcoming season with the Dodgers while also preparing for Japan’s WBC campaign.
The Cactus League is a spring training circuit in Arizona that allows MLB teams to play exhibition games before the regular season begins. By participating in these games, Ohtani will not only get valuable on-field experience but also demonstrate his readiness for both the Dodgers and Japan. His involvement in the Cactus League comes after a successful 2023 season with Los Angeles, where he continued to showcase his rare two-way talent.
Ohtani’s decision to balance his MLB commitments with international duties underscores the growing importance of global baseball. His presence on the world stage adds excitement and attention to Japan’s WBC team, which has historically been a powerhouse in the tournament. Fans worldwide are eager to
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Originally published on AP News on 2/21/2026