Strong Start, Late-Game Challenges

Shohei Ohtani appears primed for the upcoming MLB season, though questions regarding his stamina for a full starting workload remain. In his final spring training appearance on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar delivered a stellar performance against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani managed to strike out 11 of the first 14 batters he faced, showcasing his elite pitching form. However, he exited the game in the fifth inning following three consecutive singles.


His final stat line included four-plus innings, four hits, three earned runs, two walks, and 11 strikeouts across 86 pitches. He also contributed at the plate, going 1-for-2.


Analyzing the Velocity Dip

While the Dodgers were likely hoping for a cleaner finish, the primary objectives of spring training outings—evaluating pitch counts and monitoring his overall stuff—were successfully met. Ohtani’s pitching preparation has been unique this spring, as he was integrated into the rotation plans later than usual following his participation in the World Baseball Classic.


During that time, he maintained his arm strength through bullpen sessions and simulated games. This preparation allowed him to reach 61 pitches in his previous outing. On Tuesday, the Dodgers aimed to push him further. After dominating for four innings and sitting at 79 pitches, the team sent him out for the fifth, where signs of fatigue became apparent.


"Ohtani averaged 98.4 mph with his four-seam fastball in his first start, but that ticked down to 96.5 mph on Tuesday. And the three fastballs he threw in the fifth inning: 94.2 mph, 93.4 mph and 93.5 mph."


While a sudden drop in velocity can often signal injury concerns, in this instance, it appears more likely that Ohtani was simply pushed slightly beyond his current conditioning limit.


Managing Ohtani’s 2026 Workload

The Dodgers face a strategic challenge regarding Ohtani’s usage this year. Historically, Ohtani has never exceeded 166 innings in a single season, a mark he reached back in 2022. Maintaining a standard pitching rotation schedule throughout 2026 could see him approach or surpass that threshold in the regular season alone.


The decision to stretch Ohtani beyond 80 pitches shortly before Opening Day indicates the organization’s confidence in his readiness. The Dodgers are entering the season with a formidable rotation featuring:

  • Shohei Ohtani
  • Yoshinobu Yamamoto
  • Tyler Glasnow
  • Emmet Sheehan
  • Roki Sasaki

Justin Wrobleski remains available as a sixth starter, providing the team with depth as they look to secure a third consecutive World Series title.