Shohei Ohtani Makes Announcement Before 9th MLB Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Feb 13, 2026 1:48 PM ET

Shohei Ohtani could not have scripted a better start to his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers. After six years with the Angels, the two‑way superstar signed with the Dodgers two winters ago on a record‑breaking 10‑year, $700 million contract.

Since then, Ohtani has added two more MVPs, two more All‑Star selections and two Silver Slugger Awards. At the plate last year, the 31‑year‑old posted a .282 batting average, .392 on‑base percentage, 1.014 OPS, 55 home runs, 20 stolen bases and 102 RBIs across 158 games in 2025.

He has also finally gotten the chance to play on baseball’s biggest stage, thriving in October and becoming a two‑time World Series champion.

Next season, he will return to the mound full time, a development that only strengthens his case as one of the greatest players in the league’s history.

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) © Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

As Ohtani prepares for his third season with the organization, he will first represent Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic, aiming to help his country win the international tournament for the second straight time.

His influence continues to extend worldwide, and so does his brand. One of his most prominent partnerships is with New Balance, where he has become a central figure in the company’s campaigns.

Late Thursday night, Ohtani took to Instagram to announce his first signature collection with the brand.

“Introducing this season’s Shohei Ohtani Signature Collection by New Balance. Designed for on‑field performance and off‑field style, this collection features new performance and lifestyle pieces along with a new women’s and kids line in select markets,” the post read.

View this post on Instagram

With his off‑field ventures continuing to grow, the focus now shifts back to baseball and what awaits him in 2026. The Dodgers will enter the season chasing a historic three‑peat, and Ohtani will play a massive role in that pursuit.

He returns to the rotation after being limited last year, when he made only 14 starts but still delivered a 2.87 ERA, 1.043 WHIP and 62 strikeouts in 47 innings. Now fully cleared to pitch without restrictions, he is expected to anchor the staff while remaining one of the most dangerous hitters in the league.

If he performs at the level he has shown when healthy, Ohtani could once again redefine what is possible for a single player and push the Dodgers even closer to another championship run.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: