DodgerFest 2026: Shohei Ohtani will no longer pitch in WBC

The Los Angeles Dodgers held their annual fanfest event at Dodger Stadium on Saturday. DodgerFest featured several highlights, including in-depth player interviews and fun activities for fans at Chavez Ravine.

Dodgers two-time star Shohei Ohtani has decided not to pitch in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, manager Dave Roberts revealed to reporters Saturday.

Freddie Freeman revealed he plans to play four more years before retiring, with his Dodgers contract set to expire after the 2027 season. Could the Dodgers re-sign him to a two-year deal so Freeman can retire as a Dodger?

Right-handed pitcher River Ryan said he has gained 30 pounds of muscle mass during his recovery from Tommy John surgery. He is expected to play a role for the Dodgers in 2026.

World Series hero Miguel Rojas also spoke about the insurance issues that kept him from playing in the WBC.

Behind the scenes of DodgerFest 2026

Dodgers Nation gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at the 2026 DodgerFest as the MLB season quickly approaches.

Between photos with the World Series trophies, pitching games, airbrush tattoos, player selfies and more, are this year’s DodgerFest activities SO COOL? pic.twitter.com/543ibXyjHh

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) January 31, 2026

Mookie Betts just told me his goal is to play shortstop for the Dodgers for the rest of his career. Most players change shortstops at the age Mookie started playing shortstop. It’s one of the most incredible developments in baseball this past season.

— Doug McKain (@DMAC_LA) January 31, 2026

River Ryan reveals he put on 30 pounds of muscle this offseason.

Ryan missed the Dodgers’ entire 2025 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. pic.twitter.com/KqBC7YdVXL

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) January 31, 2026

How blessed are we as Dodgers fans to be entering Year 3 of Shohei Ohtani?

2 World Series titles, 2 MVPs… what else is coming? ? pic.twitter.com/ISF8xVrZ0S

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) January 31, 2026

Best interviews from DodgerFest

LA Baseball Report

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