Dodgers' Yamamoto to join Ohtani for Japan in 2026 World Baseball Classic, with MLB workload talks ongoing.

Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto plans to play for Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, joining Shohei Ohtani, with Dodgers officials confirming ongoing talks about workload and injury concerns. MLB teams can insure players for the tournament, though those with injury histories may face coverage challenges. Roki Sasaki is unlikely to participate due to a shoulder injury. Ohtani has not confirmed if he'll pitch or only play as a hitter. The tournament runs from March 4 to 17 in Miami, with other MLB players like Will Smith and Freddie Freeman also committed.