Ohtani Determined to Return Healthy as Two-Way Player

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers star, said Thursday he is determined to return as a two-way player after closing out an injury-affected 2026 season.

This season saw Ohtani stop pitching and struggle at times at the plate. Despite that, the Japanese player is targeting a full return to both roles in the period ahead.

Ohtani is known as one of the rare players who can perform effectively both as a pitcher and a hitter in Major League Baseball (MLB). His having to pause one of those two roles is notable for the team and its fans.

The update comes as the Dodgers' 2026 season closes with questions hanging over the fitness of their key star. Ohtani said his goal is to come back healthy and continue playing as a two-way player.