Spring Training 2026: Ohtani Reports Early as MLB Teams Prepare
GLENDALE, AZ – – Shohei Ohtani has already begun workouts at the Los Angeles Dodgers’ spring training facility, Camelback Ranch, ahead of the official start of pitchers and catchers’ workouts on . This early arrival mirrors a pattern for Ohtani, who has consistently begun preparations before the mandatory reporting date, according to reports.
Ohtani’s early start is partially influenced by his anticipated participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Pitchers and catchers involved in the WBC are required to report to their respective teams by , with position players due by .
Footage captured by Japanese reporter Masaya Kotani shows Ohtani engaging in throwing exercises against a plyo wall. The Dodgers have indicated a plan for Ohtani to be ready to pitch by Opening Day, while also implementing a five-day rest period between outings.
Despite his preparation, Ohtani will not pitch for Team Japan in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. While the decision was initially attributed to Ohtani himself, reports suggest insurance coverage for pitching was a contributing factor.
The early arrival of players signals the official launch of the 2026 Cactus League Spring Training season. Major League Baseball released the full schedule on , with games beginning on . Four Cactus League games are scheduled for the opening day: Arizona Diamondbacks versus the Colorado Rockies, San Diego Padres versus the Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals versus the Texas Rangers, and the Chicago White Sox versus the Chicago Cubs. The New York Yankees will face the Baltimore Orioles in the Grapefruit League on the same day.
Ticket sales are expected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, with availability varying by team and ballpark. MLB advises fans to purchase tickets directly from official sources to avoid issues with unaffiliated third-party sellers.
Across MLB, teams are entering spring training with varying narratives. The Baltimore Orioles, after a surprising 2025 season, are aiming to replicate the Blue Jays’ recent success of going from worst to first in their division. The Boston Red Sox, meanwhile, have shifted their focus to pitching and defense after failing to secure offensive power during the offseason.
Bleacher Report noted a general sentiment among teams as they head into spring training, summing up each team in a single sentence. For the Arizona Diamondbacks, the assessment was blunt: “Frankly, they should have traded Ketel Marte.”
The 2026 Spring Training schedule is now live, offering fans the opportunity to witness the beginning of a new baseball season in Arizona and Florida. The Cactus League, hosting 15 MLB teams, anticipates another successful spring training season.
