Before taking the mound, the Japanese sensation took an extended period to prepare for his start. As Springer waited at the dish, he engaged in a heated-looking discussion with the home plate umpire.

While fans initially speculated that the Blue Jays veteran was frustrated with Ohtani’s delay, a prominent MLB insider has now shed light on what actually transpired.

“I was told by two people directly involved this morning that Springer was not complaining at all,” MLB insider Ken Rosenthal revealed. “George Springer was simply asking the home plate umpire for clarification that Shohei Ohtani indeed gets more time to warm up.”

With those details emerging, a situation that set social media ablaze appears to have been a simple misunderstanding. Regardless of the optics, the Blue Jays secured a much-needed win as they continue to navigate a roster decimated by a massive early-season injury list.

Dodgers’ manager weighed in

Despite the clarification that Springer wasn’t acting out of frustration, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also weighed in on the logistics surrounding his two-way superstar.

“Since the World Series, there have been comments around how much time Ohtani gets to ready himself to pitch after hitting,” Roberts told reporters. “But he’s been on the basepaths, so there should be some grace, which I think the umpires try to give him. If you’re on the other side, of course, you’d want to rush it.“

Roberts’ comments only added fuel to the fire on social media, where fans continue to debate whether the league offers Ohtani or the Dodgers preferential treatment. Controversy aside, the reality remains that the Blue Jays walked away with the win.

Ohtani is still recovering from an elbow procedure in September 2023, and the Dodgers are limiting his starts early in the season. “The Dodgers are taking a conservative approach with Ohtani to keep him healthy,” reported Katie Woo of The Athletic, emphasizing the team’s focus on long-term performance over immediate numbers.

The two-way star didn’t pitch in 2024 and appeared in only 14 regular-season games last year. While he performed well, the Dodgers are deliberately spacing out his starts and monitoring his innings to maximize his impact in October, ensuring he is fully prepared for the postseason, after Ohtani’s 11-K outing shifted from Spring Training test to Dodgers necessity.

Managing Ohtani’s workload strategically

The Dodgers are balancing Ohtani’s dual roles as a pitcher and hitter carefully. By spacing out his starts and monitoring his innings, they aim to reduce fatigue while still leveraging his unique abilities. This measured approach reflects a broader philosophy: the team isn’t holding him back out of fear, but rather engineering his availability for maximum impact in critical games.

Postseason preparation over regular-season stats

While Ohtani’s early-season numbers may not reflect his full talent, the strategy ensures he peaks at the right moment. The Dodgers are confident that when October arrives, their two-way star will be at his best, both on the mound and at the plate, giving Los Angeles a key advantage in the playoff race. The plan is less about immediate statistics and more about ensuring dominance when it matters most.

According to MLB.com, manager Dave Roberts said, “He’s ready to go,” after Ohtani showed sharper intensity and execution in the Spring Training finale against the Los Angeles Angels.

The right-hander allowed three runs over four-plus innings but demonstrated command and the ability to overpower hitters, and afterward Roberts revealed the blueprint for Shohei Ohtani’s first Dodgers start.

Ohtani struck out six straight between the second and fourth innings, using a mix of pitches that included a curveball Roberts said helped “slow hitters down.” His ability to handle both left- and right-handed bats suggests he’s prepared for a larger role as the Dodgers navigate early-season injuries.

From buildup phase to immediate impact

Ohtani’s outing reflected more than routine spring work. After spending the offseason focused on strength rather than rehab, he appears physically ready and mentally sharper from months studying the game from the sidelines.

Dodgers rotation now depends on Ohtani

The Dodgers’ pitching situation has forced a shift in approach. With Snell and Stone expected to miss time, the team has limited flexibility and must rely more heavily on available arms.

Roberts acknowledged the challenge, noting the team must manage workloads carefully while still covering innings. Ohtani, who has identified 25 starts as an ideal target this season, now becomes a key piece in stabilizing both the rotation and a bullpen expected to carry a heavy load early.

Roberts has already laid out the blueprint for the two-way superstar’s season debut. “Shohei Ohtani won’t pitch more than seven innings in his first start,” Roberts said, cited by Dodgers Nation.

For the Guardians, the challenge remains daunting; they’ll spend the next week prepping for a triple-digit heater that hasn’t lost any of its bite during the layoff.

Despite the fans’ eagerness to see Ohtani “toe the rubber” on Day 1, the assignment naturally falls to Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the reigning World Series MVP. However, Ohtani won’t be idle; he’ll be anchored at the top of the lineup doing what he does best, punishing baseballs.

While Ohtani looks locked in, Roberts recently addressed the spring struggles of fellow countryman Roki Sasaki, noting the young right-hander is still finding his rhythm ahead of the regular season.

Ohtani’s projections: Another MVP-caliber campaign?

Ohtani enters the 2026 season looking to shake off a bittersweet World Baseball Classic. While Japan’s run ended in a stunning quarterfinal exit at the hands of eventual champion Venezuela, Ohtani’s individual performance was nothing short of legendary.

He posted a .462 average and a 1.231 OPS, tied for the tournament lead with three home runs.The momentum is expected to carry into the MLB regular season.

According to Baseball Reference projections, Ohtani is slated for a massive 2026:

Spring training: Ohtani’s arm is back

If his spring training performance is any indication, Ohtani’s pitching is back to elite form. In two spring starts spanning 8.1 innings, he flashed a 3.24 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP.

Most impressively, he fanned 15 batters and touched 99.9 MPH on the radar gun. For a Dodgers team eyeing a three-peat, those numbers are the ultimate “good omen.”

Team Venezuela also arrives in strong form after posting a 3-1 record in the group stage. However, the Venezuelan squad could not secure the top spot in Pool D after falling to the Dominican Republic in the final game of the first round.

Now, Japan and Venezuela will meet in Miami for a highly anticipated matchup with a place in the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic on the line. An early blockbuster duel between two contenders.

What happens if Team Japan loses vs Venezuela in 2026 WBC?

If Japan and Shohei Ohtani lose to Venezuela, their run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic will come to an end. The quarterfinals are played under a single-elimination format, meaning the losing team is immediately eliminated while the winner advances to the semifinals.

What happens if Team Japan wins vs Venezuela?

If Team Japan defeats Venezuela, a spot in the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic would be guaranteed. Ohtani’s squad will face the winner of Italy vs Puerto Rico for a place in the final.

Ohtani has kept a close eye on a familiar face from the opposing dugout. During a press conference at the Tokyo Dome on Wednesday, Ohtani signaled out South Korea’s Hye-seong Kim as the player he is most eager to face. “I’m keeping an eye on Hye-seong Kim,” Ohtani told reporters. “We’re Dodgers teammates and he’s a great person. We always have a great time together, and if we can put on a show in a high-stakes game, it’ll be a great opportunity for both of us.“

The upcoming clash between Japan and South Korea remains the gold standard of international rivalries. Beyond the regional bragging rights, the matchup serves as a premier showcase for MLB scouts to evaluate talent like Kim, who has found success alongside Ohtani in Los Angeles but is looking to solidify his global reputation on the international stage.

Now in his third season with the Dodgers, Ohtani’s expectations for himself remain sky-high, both in terms of on-field production and leadership. Facing a club teammate like Kim in the high-pressure environment of the WBC adds a compelling layer to a rivalry that rarely lacks for drama.

Inside Ohtani’s mental approach

Questions for the Japanese phenom during the tournament have often turned toward the discipline required to maintain his historic level of play. Whether leading the Dodgers to back-to-back World Series titles in 2024 and 2025 or anchoring the national team, Ohtani’s process remains remarkably consistent.

“Taking rest takes courage, and skipping it altogether is another form of practice,” Ohtani revealed when discussing his routine. It is this calculated approach to recovery that has allowed him to sustain an MVP-caliber workload while helping the Dodgers and Samurai Japan reach the pinnacle of the sport over the last three years.

The stage is now set for Saturday’s head-to-head matchup between Japan and South Korea. With Dodgers teammates Ohtani and Kim on opposite sides of the diamond, fans at the Tokyo Dome can expect nothing less than a masterclass in modern baseball.

Dominican journalist Yancen Pujols conducted an interview with Tatis Jr., in which he delivered a confident message and took a subtle jab at Ohtani. “Credit where credit is due. Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the world right now. But even he can’t play all nine positions or bat nine times in a game,“ Tatis Jr. proclaimed.

Tatis Jr. continued, “It’s a team sport. Honestly, with the team we have, I’m not afraid of anyone. My respect to them (Team Japan). I give them full respect and honor where it’s deserved. Team USA is undeniably stacked too, but Team DR carries unmatched preparation and a relentless work ethic, leaving almost no flaws on the field.”

With these remarks, the San Diego Padres player exudes confidence as he prepares for the WBC, undeterred by the likes of Ohtani or other star players. His trust in his teammates is evident, with a clear goal to win the tournament.

How good is Team Dominican Republic with Tatis Jr. on board?

Last season, Tatis Jr. delivered an exceptional performance with the Padres, joining the exclusive 25/30 club—having achieved 25+ home runs and 30+ stolen bases—for the second time in his career.

Alongside Tatis Jr., here’s the rest of the Dominican Republic roster for the WBC:

• Catchers: Austin Wells (Yankees), Agustin Ramirez (Marlins)
• Infielders: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Blue Jays), Manny Machado (Padres), Ketel Marte (D-backs), Geraldo Perdomo (D-backs), Jeremy Peña (Astros), Junior Caminero (Rays), Carlos Santana (Guardians), Amed Rosario (Yankees)
• Outfielders: Juan Soto (Mets), Fernando Tatis Jr. (Padres), Julio Rodriguez (Mariners), Oneil Cruz (Pirates)
• Starting Pitchers: Cristopher Sanchez (Phillies), Sandy Alcantara (Marlins), Brayan Bello (Red Sox), Luis Severino (Athletics)
• Relievers: Camilo Doval (Yankees), Carlos Estevez (Royals), Seranthony Dominguez (White Sox), Wandy Peralta (Padres), Gregory Soto (Pirates), Abner Uribe (Brewers), Elvis Alvarado (A’s), Huascar Brazoban (Mets), Dennis Santana (Pirates), Juan Mejia (Rockies), Albert Abreu (Chunichi Dragons)

With such an impressive roster and the tournament fast approaching, Tatis Jr.’s comments further elevate the anticipation for the World Baseball Classic set to kick off on March 5.

Stars such as Shohei Ohtani and Kylie Tucker have helped shape a roster built to contend year after year. Their presence not only elevates performance on the field, but also underscores the franchise’s commitment to maintaining one of the league’s most competitive cores.

In the MLB, their salary landscape offers a clear signal of priorities. The names leading the earnings list represent more than individual value — they embody the organization’s long-term vision and pursuit of sustained success.

Who are the highest-paid Dodgers in 2026?

As the Dodgers head into the 2026 season with one of baseball’s most eye-catching payrolls, topping an estimated $410 million+ in luxury-tax commitments, a handful of star names dominate the team’s financial picture.

At the top stands the two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, whose massive 10-year, $700 million contract still makes him one of the highest-paid players in the game. Despite much of that sum being deferred, their structure his deal to retain elite talent while managing annual payroll figures.

Hot on Ohtani’s heels is newly acquired slugger Kyle Tucker, who agreed to a four-year, $240 million deal with LA — giving him among the largest average annual salaries in baseball and cementing his role as a cornerstone bat.

From historic contracts to strategic roster construction, the list of the Dodgers’ top earners offers a glimpse into how Los Angeles has positioned itself for sustained contention in 2026 and beyond…

In an environment as competitive as MLB, Ohtani must keep his head on a swivel. He now sits on a throne, wearing a jewel-studded crown. While his game and accolades demand respect across the league, they also place a target squarely on his back. Every star in the continent is coming for his seat atop the mountain.

Ohtani is the reigning NL MVP, but once the 2026 MLB season begins, it’s a clean slate for everyone. In that context, Soto delivered a bold message about his MVP expectations.

“[Ohtani] better keep doing what he’s doing because I’m coming,” Soto bluntly stated about the race for the National League’s Most Valuable Player award, via MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo.

Jazz Chisholm warns Ohtani about 50-50 club

Although Chisholm Jr. and the Yankees have no say in Ohtani’s NL MVP pursuit and can’t rain on his parade, the star infielder is still determined to take a milestone away from him—or at least join him on an exclusive MLB list.

“You’re looking at the second one,” Chisholm Jr. confidently said about his pursuit to join the 50-50 club in MLB, via The Athletic.

Ohtani is founding father of the 50-50 club

The 50–50 club was founded by Dodgers star Ohtani, as he achieved what no other MLB player ever had. In the 2024 season, Ohtani slashed 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases. In doing so, he created an exclusive club in MLB history. No other player has ever hit 50+ homers while stealing 50+ bases in a single season.

The fact Ohtani accomplished such a feat when his primary skill set is that of a pitcher only adds to his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the sport. However, the four-time MVP is now being put on notice by Chisholm Jr., as the Yankees’ second baseman looks to shock the world in 2026, a contract year for him.

Ohtani’s threats for the 2026 season both come from the Big Apple. One, Soto, is aiming at his crown, which many believe won’t be up for grabs anytime soon. The other, Chisholm, is staring across the street and into the 50–50 club. If Ohtani isn’t careful, he might witness a cross-league intruder break into that exclusive household, while another star seizes an unguarded throne.

Manager Dave Roberts is tasked with constructing a competitive team from the remaining roster. One of those representing Japan, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, experienced an interesting situation with Roberts regarding his availability for both the Dodgers and the national team.

Roberts informed the media that Saturday would mark Yamamoto’s final appearance in spring training as he needs to report to Japan’s National Baseball Team for the WBC. However, Yamamoto announced he would play against the San Francisco Giants on Friday with the Dodgers, clarifying his availability for that game with the team.

The upcoming game will be Yamamoto’s last before joining the WBC, where Japan aim to defend their title. With Ohtani not expected to pitch in the 2026 WBC due to significant reasons, much of the Dodgers’ attention will focus on Yamamoto’s development and impact.

Dodgers players competing in the WBC

In addition to Yamamoto and Ohtani, several other Dodgers will showcase their talents in the WBC, representing countries beyond Japan. Below is the list of players who will miss the spring training games in March:

• Shohei Ohtani – Japan
• Yoshinobu Yamamoto – Japan
• Will Smith – USA
• Edwin Diaz – Puerto Rico
• Ha-seong Kim – South Korea

Yamamoto’s spring training debut with the Dodgers

While the absence of five players presents a challenge for the Dodgers, Yamamoto stands out as a particularly significant loss. He made an impressive preseason debut, contributing outstanding stats in the spring training game where the Dodgers triumphed 15-2 over the Los Angeles Angels.

• Innings Pitched: 1.2
• Hits: 3
• Runs: 2
• Earned Runs: 1
• Strikeouts: 3
• Walks: 0
• Pitches (Strikes): 30-(22)

In an exclusive interview with Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, Hyesoung Kim outlined his ambition to secure the role of starting second baseman for the Dodgers on Opening Day.

“It’s always been a dream of mine as a baseball player to start on an Opening Day roster,” Kim stated, discussing his offseason efforts and aspirations for the forthcoming season.

Kim may well be one of the strategic options for manager Dave Roberts on Opening Day, especially given that Tommy Edman is sidelined with an injury for the season opener.

Kim’s stats with the Dodgers last season

To appreciate Kim’s potential impact for the Dodgers this Opening Day, let’s examine his performance last season. While his numbers might not have been headline-grabbing, his contributions were invaluable in the team clinching their second consecutive title.

• Games Played: 71
• At-Bats: 161
• Batting Average: .280
• Home Runs: 3
• Stolen Bases: 13
• RBIs: 17
• OPS: .699

Projected lineup for opening day featuring Kim

Manager Dave Roberts may opt for a lineup featuring Hyesoung Kim at second base. Here is a potential Opening Day lineup for the Dodgers as they embark on their quest for another successful season.

1. Shohei Ohtani DH
2. Kyle Tucker RF
3. Mookie Betts SS
4. Freddie Freeman 1B
5. Will Smith C
6. Max Muncy 3B
7. Teoscar Hernandez LF
8. Andy Pages CF
9. Hyeseong Kim 2B