Shohei Ohtani has broken his silence following the Los Angeles Dodgers' elimination from the National League Championship Series with a concise message to fans.
"Thank you," Ohtani wrote in a caption accompanying a post on Instagram. The 2026 season marked Ohtani's most disappointing campaign since joining the Dodgers, with the team's postseason run ending prematurely. This followed two previous seasons that concluded with World Series titles for the team.
Despite the team's early exit, the Dodgers' management of Ohtani's health throughout the season has been a significant point of discussion. Ohtani experienced multiple injuries in 2026. While he could have been shut down during the summer to ensure his readiness for the postseason, the team allowed him to continue playing. His offensive production was notably impacted as the season progressed due to these injuries.
Ohtani's season statistics included 30 home runs and an ERA below 2.00, but the season concluded in what is described as a catastrophe due to the handling of his health. The Dodgers' inability to advance in the postseason, especially with a roster featuring significant star power, has led to widespread disappointment among fans.
Looking ahead to the 2027 season, changes are anticipated for the Dodgers during the offseason. Ohtani has expressed his intention to continue as a two-way player next year. The team will need to develop a strategy to manage his workload effectively, considering the physical demands on an aging Ohtani and the potential implications for his performance by October.