Dodgers Update: Pursuing Ohtani, Snell, Edman Trades
Shohei Ohtani, the standout Japanese right-hander, has decided not to pitch in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed this decision during a press conference, citing that it was ultimately Ohtani’s choice. Although the Dodgers were prepared to facilitate his participation as a pitcher, issues regarding WBC insurance complicated matters. Reports suggest that Ohtani would not have qualified for coverage as a pitcher, limiting his role to designated hitter for Team Japan.
Despite withdrawing from pitching duties, Ohtani is expected to be ready to take the mound at the start of the regular season. In 2025, he made 14 starts for the Dodgers, achieving an impressive 2.87 ERA across 47 innings. However, Ohtani’s playoff performance was less dominant, as he struggled to replicate the consistency seen in the regular season.
Blake Snell’s Recovery and Outlook
Blake Snell, another key player for the Dodgers, is taking a cautious approach to his training as he recovers from shoulder inflammation. After signing a lucrative five-year, $182 million contract, Snell faced challenges last season that affected his early performance. He acknowledged that he rushed his comeback, leading to less than optimal results in his initial outings.
As Snell prepares for the new season, he has focused on gradually building his strength. Snell demonstrated impressive form in the postseason, where he allowed only two earned runs over 21 innings against teams like the Reds, Phillies, and Brewers. Despite some setbacks, he is on track to be ready for Opening Day.
Contingency Plans for the Dodgers
The Dodgers are also considering their starting rotation depth, especially if Snell is not fully recovered by late March. Roki Sasaki and Emmet Sheehan are potential candidates to fill in if necessary. With injury histories affecting the team’s core pitchers, the Dodgers may rely on more than five starters during the season. In the 2025 playoffs, their starters covered significant innings, underscoring their need for depth in the rotation.
Tommy Edman’s Rehabilitation
In addition to Ohtani and Snell, Tommy Edman is also working his way back from ankle surgery, which included ligament repair and the removal of bone spurs. Edman expressed that his recovery is crucial for regaining his speed and defensive capabilities. His health will determine his participation in the upcoming season.
- Edman, 30, has been limited to 134 games in two seasons with the Dodgers.
- He has hit 19 home runs but has seen a drastic decline in stolen bases.
- Edman’s speed, previously ranked elite, has noticeably decreased since joining the team.
As the Dodgers prepare for the 2026 season, the progress of Ohtani, Snell, and Edman will be pivotal in shaping the team’s performance. With careful management of their recoveries, Los Angeles aims to bolster their roster and maintain competitiveness in the league.
