Shohei Ohtani: Dodgers Star Eyes 2026 Cy Young Award Run

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is preparing for the 2026 Major League Baseball season with the potential to add another prestigious award to his already impressive collection. After a period of recovery, Ohtani appears poised to return to his full potential as both a hitter and a pitcher.

A Pursuit of the Cy Young

Ohtani, a four-time MLB Most Valuable Player and two-time World Series champion, has yet to win the Cy Young Award, given to the league’s best pitcher. Manager Dave Roberts indicated on February 14, 2026, that Ohtani is focused on achieving this goal, stating, “I think it’s fair to say he expects to be in the Cy Young conversation.” Roberts emphasized the team’s priority is Ohtani’s health and consistent pitching appearances, believing that statistics will follow.

Rehabilitation and Preparation

Ohtani enters spring training after a rehab-focused off-season. He underwent two right elbow operations in 2023, delaying his return to pitching until June of last year. Despite not pitching for Japan in the upcoming Baseball World Classic, Ohtani anticipates being a full-time two-way player for the Dodgers this season, a role he last consistently held in 2023.

Did You Know? Shohei Ohtani’s best two-way season to date was in 2022 with the Los Angeles Angels, where he achieved a 15-9 record with a 2.33 earned run average.

Ohtani recognizes that winning the Cy Young Award requires consistent performance throughout the season. “Getting a Cy Young means being able to throw more innings and being able to pitch throughout the whole season,” he stated. He is currently ramping up his pitching workload, aiming to throw live batting practice next week.

Competition and Future Outlook

The competition for the Cy Young Award is expected to be fierce. Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes, the 2025 National League Cy Young Award winner, is likely to contend again. Ohtani’s Dodgers teammate, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, also presents a potential challenge.

Expert Insight: Ohtani’s ability to consistently pitch at a high level, while also maintaining his exceptional hitting performance, represents a unique challenge for both him and the Dodgers’ coaching staff. Managing his workload will be crucial to maximizing his potential and avoiding re-injury.

Ohtani will focus on hitting during the World Baseball Classic, from March 5-17, while continuing to build his pitching stamina. He acknowledged uncertainty about practice conditions during the WBC but remains committed to preparing for a full season as a two-way player.

Frequently Asked Questions

What awards has Shohei Ohtani already won?

Shohei Ohtani is a four-time MLB Most Valuable Player and a two-time World Series champion.

When did Shohei Ohtani last pitch regularly?

Ohtani last played as a full-time two-way player in 2023.

What is Dave Roberts’ primary concern regarding Ohtani?

Dave Roberts stated the Dodgers’ primary concern is Ohtani’s health and ensuring he is able to make consistent starts as a pitcher.

Will Ohtani’s dedication to both pitching and hitting allow him to achieve the rare feat of winning a Cy Young Award?