Shocked? Guess, that’s what Shohei Ohtani is. A superstar at his peak. But he doesn’t hesitate to pause and reflect on his performance. And tbh, he has done just about everything right. For fans who have admired the ride, from record-breaking signings to global glory, it feels almost unreal.  

As talks surrounding the 2026 WBC grow louder, the two-way phenom is not declaring dominance—he is dialing into discipline.

When asked about his approaches for the upcoming World Baseball Classic, Shotime did not boast and hint at automatic inclusion. Instead, Ohtani responded with, “If I am chosen to participate, it would be a tremendous honor. But first and foremost, I think I need to prove myself again this season.” This was not your usual canned reaction. It was a door in the thought process of a star who refuses to have past triumphs carry today’s expectations.

Remember the last WBC? Ohtani led Japan to glory by striking out his then-Angels teammate Mike Trout to seal the trophy and snatch the MVP title. However, despite that height, he is not resting easily. As the star put it, “I believe I have to show that I deserve it this year.” This season is all related to earning it from scratch, because for him, yesterday’s legacy does not automatically purchase tomorrow’s scope.

But probably, this strategy is for the best. For starters, Shohei Ohtani is in his first season with the Dodgers, managing to live as a full-time DH while rehabbing from elbow surgery. No pitching and no double duty. Just slugging—and Ohtani is doing that effectively. However, clearly, that is not enough for the talent.

And that’s why he is prepping pitching skills, too. He is throwing from around the distance of the pitcher’s mound. But he has not yet gone off the mound, as that’s elevated. “I’m at a stage where I need to take one step at a time. I won’t fret over it and take the next step properly.” Yeah, he is taking it slow. But given the normal distance from the back of home plate to the pitching mound is 60 feet 6 inches, he has already reached 60 feet with a velocity up to 80 miles an hour. That’s impressive! 

For Ohtani, more than external validation, it is about internal accountability. “It’s important to do my best to stay among the top players first, in order to get picked.”

The WBC 2026 finale will be returning to the familiar venue – LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida. Yeah, just like 2023. So, yeah, if Shohei Ohtani gets picked, once again, he will play for Japan at the same stadium, and probably, with the same form. But as of now, “I am focused entirely on this season. Then, in the offseason, I will see how things develop.” 

Yes, we can see that, Shotime!

Shohei Ohtani is smashing records this season

For someone claiming he still has a lot to prove, the Dodgers star is making quite the statement on the field. In Wednesday’s game against the Rockies, the Japanese superstar launched a 448-foot HR, marking his 6th one this season. And that also makes him a Starcast era record holder. Wait, there’s more.

Now, Shohei Ohtani has 60 homers as a Dodger. And he has already touched 21 runs this season!

However, this was not an isolated performance. Shohei Ohtani has been continuously delivering at the plate. In 2024, he hit a 473-foot home run, which is by far the longest by any Dodger. And how can we forget his unforgettable milestone of becoming the first star in MLB to hit 50 HR and steal 50 bases in a single season? Last season, Ohtani’s final stats contained 54 HR and 59 stolen bases, highlighting his unparalleled versatility and athleticism.

His effect is not limited to power and speed. With 134 runs scored and 130 RBIs, Ohtani was on fire in 2024. The star’s offensive prowess was further highlighted by his .310 BA and a 1.036 OPS, helping to achieve a remarkable 9.2 WAR for the season. 

This three-time MVP and four-time All-Star literally led LA in their latest win against the Colorado Rockies with an 8-7 win.

Shohei Ohtani is a star at the pinnacle of his game. While he humbly speaks of needing to prove himself, his on-field performances tell a story of dominance and excellence. From his first face-off with the Cubs to the last game so far with the Rockies, Ohtani is already proving himself this season. Now, as the 2026 World Baseball Classic awaits, we really cannot wait to experience what else he holds with his bat and hopefully, his gloves! Fingers crossed, right?