Dodgers Showcase Diaz and Ohtani as Spring Training Kicks Off

The Los Angeles Dodgers are ramping up for the 2026 season with high expectations after a busy offseason. The team’s marquee move was the signing of closer Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69 million contract, adding a proven late-inning weapon to an already strong bullpen. On Friday, fans got their first glimpse of Diaz in Dodgers uniform, throwing alongside star two-way player Shohei Ohtani during a bullpen session at spring training.

The session, captured in video footage reported by Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, showed both Diaz and Ohtani warming up and preparing for the Dodgers’ upcoming spring game against the Los Angeles Angels on February 21. Dodgers president Andrew Friedman was present, observing the two pitchers as they took the mound together, highlighting the team’s investment in its star power for 2026.

Diaz, who turns 32 in March, is entering his 10th MLB season and brings a track record of dominance as a closer. A three-time All-Star, Diaz posted a 1.63 ERA and 0.874 WHIP last season while striking out 98 batters and recording 28 saves. His presence is expected to solidify the Dodgers’ bullpen, providing a reliable arm in high-leverage situations.

Meanwhile, Ohtani is aiming for a full season as both a hitter and starting pitcher for the first time since 2023. Recovering from an elbow injury that sidelined him in 2024, the 31-year-old phenom is expected to be a key contributor on both sides of the ball. Ohtani’s performance will be pivotal as the Dodgers pursue a potential three-peat in the World Series.

1. Diaz’s Role and Impact

Edwin Diaz brings both experience and intensity to the Dodgers’ bullpen. Known for his high-velocity fastball and devastating slider, Diaz has consistently ranked among the league’s elite closers. His ability to shut down opponents late in games will be a key asset for a Dodgers team aiming for postseason success. Last season, Diaz’s strikeout rate and control made him one of MLB’s most efficient relievers. Opponents batted just .182 against him, demonstrating his dominance in short outings. With his signing, the Dodgers not only add a reliable closer but also create matchup flexibility in late innings. Beyond statistics, Diaz’s leadership and postseason experience are invaluable. He brings a mentality honed through high-pressure situations, which can help mentor younger arms in the bullpen and elevate overall team performance. His integration into the Dodgers’ pitching staff will be watched closely as the team looks to optimize both the rotation and bullpen, particularly in games where high-leverage situations are likely to decide outcomes.

2. Shohei Ohtani’s Dual Threat

Shohei Ohtani enters the 2026 season as a rare two-way talent, contributing as both a starting pitcher and a middle-of-the-order hitter. After missing the mound in 2024 due to injury, Ohtani bounced back in 2025, posting a .282 batting average, 55 home runs, 102 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. On the mound, he recorded a 2.87 ERA and 1.04 WHIP while striking out 62 batters in limited innings. The Dodgers plan to fully leverage Ohtani’s dual skills this season, providing lineup flexibility and an impactful pitching option. His presence allows manager Dave Roberts to structure rotations creatively while maintaining a potent offense. Ohtani’s ability to stay healthy and effective on both sides of the game will be critical. A successful 2026 campaign could cement him as one of the defining figures in MLB history and provide the Dodgers with a unique competitive advantage. The combination of Diaz’s late-inning dominance and Ohtani’s dual threat makes the Dodgers’ pitching staff one of the most formidable in baseball, capable of handling high-stakes games in both the regular season and playoffs.

3. Dodgers’ 2026 Outlook

With a strengthened bullpen and Ohtani’s return as a full-time two-way player, the Dodgers enter 2026 with high expectations. The team aims to contend in the National League and pursue a rare three-peat in the World Series, a feat achieved by only two franchises in MLB history. Spring training will provide early indicators of chemistry, performance, and readiness. Integrating Diaz effectively alongside the rotation and managing Ohtani’s workload will be crucial to sustaining success over the long season. The Dodgers’ front office has emphasized depth and versatility, ensuring that the team can navigate injuries or slumps while maintaining competitive balance. Diaz and Ohtani are central to that strategy, with both expected to feature prominently throughout the year. If both stars perform as anticipated, the Dodgers could combine elite pitching, dynamic offense, and postseason experience into a championship-caliber roster, positioning them as favorites to repeat their recent World Series success.