GLENDALE, Ariz. – As pitchers and catchers continue to report to Spring Training camps across Arizona and Florida, the Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves with a unique situation – and a very focused superstar. Shohei Ohtani, already a five-time All-Star, four-time Most Valuable Player, two-time World Series winner, and World Baseball Classic champion, has set his sights on the one major award that has eluded him: the Cy Young Award.
Ohtani’s pursuit of the pitching accolade comes as he continues his recovery and preparation for a full return to two-way play. He’s been a dominant force in baseball for years, but the Cy Young remains the missing piece in a remarkable career. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Ohtani’s ambition, stating, “I think it’s fair to say he expects to be in the Cy Young conversation.” Roberts emphasized the team’s primary goal is Ohtani’s health, believing that consistent starts and strong performances will naturally lead to statistical success.
The Dodgers also have another pitcher aiming for Cy Young consideration: Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Yamamoto, acquired in the offseason, is seen as a strong contender for the award in his first season with the team. His track record of success, including a Game 6 victory and a subsequent 2 ⅔ inning save in Game 7 of a championship series, suggests he has the potential to make a significant impact.
Ohtani’s journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. He has acknowledged the pressure of balancing his hitting and pitching responsibilities, admitting to moments of doubt about his ability to handle both. He has refined his training regimen to better manage the demands placed on him, a process that has been crucial to his continued success.
The Dodgers’ investment in both Ohtani and Yamamoto signals a clear intent to contend for a championship. Having two legitimate Cy Young candidates in their rotation significantly strengthens their chances. The competition within the team is expected to push both pitchers to elevate their game, benefiting the Dodgers as a whole.
Beyond the individual accolades, Ohtani’s focus is on contributing to the team’s success. He understands that winning a championship requires a collective effort, and he is committed to being a key part of that effort. His dedication to improvement and his unwavering work ethic are qualities that Roberts consistently highlights.
The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for Dodgers fans, with the anticipation of watching Ohtani and Yamamoto compete at the highest level. The Cy Young race is sure to be closely watched, and the Dodgers are well-positioned to have both of their stars in contention. The team’s success will likely hinge on the health and performance of these two pitchers, as well as the contributions of the rest of the roster.
The broader context of the MLB landscape also plays a role. As Spring Training gets underway, teams are evaluating their rosters and preparing for the long season ahead. The Dodgers, with their star power and depth, are widely considered to be among the favorites to win the World Series. Their ability to navigate the challenges of the season and remain healthy will be crucial to their ultimate success.
The pursuit of a Cy Young Award is not just about individual recognition for Ohtani; it’s about solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in baseball history. He has already achieved so much, but the addition of a Cy Young Award would further cement his place among the game’s legends. His dedication to the sport and his relentless pursuit of excellence are qualities that inspire fans and fellow players alike.
Yamamoto’s arrival adds another layer of intrigue to the Dodgers’ pitching staff. His success in Japan has translated well to the major leagues, and he is quickly establishing himself as a valuable asset. The combination of Ohtani’s power and Yamamoto’s precision creates a formidable duo that opposing hitters will undoubtedly fear.
As Ohtani prepares for the season, he remains focused on his goals. He understands the challenges that lie ahead, but he is confident in his ability to overcome them. His unwavering determination and his commitment to excellence are qualities that define him as a player and as a person. The Dodgers, and baseball fans everywhere, will be watching closely to see what he accomplishes in 2026.
