""It was a great conversation," Friedman said. "It was about just keeping open the lines of communication. We're very supportive of Samurai Japan and all that they're trying to accomplish. And they were very supportive of us. And it was about just keeping open the lines of communication. And the mutual respect and working together to help all sides.""
"One of the biggest questions facing the Dodgers is whether Ohtani will handle two-way duties in the 2026 WBC or simply be limited to hitting. Ohtani returned to the mound this past June after not pitching at all in 2024 while recovering from right elbow surgery. The Dodgers took a methodical approach to building up Ohtani and fully stretched him out by the playoffs. He wound up logging 67.1 innings between the regular season and postseason."
Shohei Ohtani is expected to return to lead Team Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Yoshinobu Yamamoto figures to be named to Samurai Japan's roster, while Roki Sasaki will likely skip the event after missing most of his rookie season with a shoulder injury. The Dodgers would prefer star players to sit out the WBC after a deep playoff run but recognize the tournament's importance to Japan. Andrew Friedman held productive talks with Samurai Japan officials emphasizing open communication and mutual respect. A central question is whether Ohtani will pitch in the WBC or serve only as a designated hitter after returning to the mound this June and logging 67.1 innings.
Read at Dodger Blue
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