Ohtani’s viral moment highlights dominant Dodgers spring debut
Shohei Ohtani delivered one of the most memorable moments of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ spring training opener — and it didn’t come from his bat. The two-way superstar narrowly avoided a sharply hit line drive from teammate Hyeseong Kim during the Cactus League matchup, instinctively sidestepping the ball before flashing a playful stare toward Kim that quickly went viral.
While the brief scare drew laughs in the dugout and online, it also underscored Ohtani’s elite athletic instincts — a trait that has defined his unique value as both a hitter and pitcher. The Dodgers went on to control the game from start to finish, defeating the Los Angeles Angels 15-2 at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
Dodgers’ explosive offense sets early tone
Los Angeles wasted no time asserting control, piling up nine runs across the first two innings to effectively put the game out of reach. The offensive surge showcased the depth that has made the Dodgers preseason contenders once again.
Kim, battling for increased playing time at second base while Tommy Edman remains sidelined, was among the early standouts. He contributed a two-run single in the first inning followed by an RBI knock in the second, demonstrating both contact ability and situational hitting that could impact roster decisions later in camp.
The Dodgers’ lineup continued to apply pressure throughout the contest, combining patience at the plate with aggressive baserunning — a combination that reflects the club’s emphasis on early-season rhythm rather than individual statistics.
Ohtani makes efficient spring appearance at the plate
As is typical for established stars early in spring training, Ohtani’s outing was brief but productive. The designated hitter reached base with an infield single, crossed the plate once, and completed his scheduled work before exiting after the second inning.
The measured workload reflects the Dodgers’ long-term approach with their franchise cornerstone. Manager Dave Roberts has prioritized gradual ramp-up periods to preserve Ohtani’s durability across both roles, particularly with expectations of a heavier pitching workload later in the season.
Alex Vesia strikes out Shohei Ohtani for the second time this week at Los Angeles Dodgers Spring Training camp. Ohtani is 0-for-2 vs. Vesia this spring pic.twitter.com/uj0LWvQ9cS
— Jack Vita (@JackVitaShow) February 19, 2026
Two-way expectations remain massive entering new season
Ohtani’s return to pitching last season offered encouraging signs despite limited volume. Across 14 starts, he posted a 2.87 ERA with 62 strikeouts in 47 innings, numbers that hinted at dominant potential once fully stretched out. Team officials believe he could significantly increase that workload this year if health cooperates.
At the plate, Ohtani remains one of baseball’s most dangerous offensive forces. He finished last season with a .282 batting average, .392 on-base percentage, and .622 slugging percentage, launching 55 home runs while driving in 102 runs and adding 20 stolen bases. Those numbers secured another MVP honor and reinforced his standing as baseball’s most complete superstar.
Now entering the next phase of his historic 10-year, $700 million contract, Ohtani continues to justify the investment with both production and global impact.
Beyond the Dodgers’ championship ambitions, Ohtani is also expected to represent Team Japan in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, further increasing the importance of careful usage throughout spring and early regular-season play.
The Dodgers’ strategy includes scheduled rest days and controlled pitching sessions, with Ohtani expected to alternate between game appearances and live mound work during camp. The approach aims to balance competitive preparation with long-term durability — a delicate equation given his dual responsibilities.
⚾️594:佐々木朗希投手応援📣
いよいよWBCモード😄 大谷さんも名古屋合流👏 既にワクワクドキドキ💓
ダルさんもありがとう😭
朗希さんOP戦初戦 制球苦戦❓💦は年初恒例❓😅
怪我なく上手く調整しよう🪭🪭#佐々木朗希 #Dodgers #ShoheiOhtani pic.twitter.com/WRB3p45sRb— 番腰 (@854Bankoshi) February 26, 2026
Why this moment matters for the Dodgers
While the viral near-miss with Kim provided a lighthearted highlight, it also illustrated how quickly attention gravitates toward Ohtani in any setting. His presence elevates routine spring games into must-watch events and reinforces the Dodgers’ position at the center of baseball’s spotlight.
More importantly, the opener demonstrated the roster depth and offensive firepower required to support Ohtani across a demanding season. If Los Angeles can maintain health while integrating its new pieces, the combination of lineup explosiveness and Ohtani’s two-way brilliance could again place the Dodgers firmly in the World Series conversation.
