Shohei Ohtani aims for a bigger pitching workload in 2026.

Shohei Ohtani threw 4 1/3 scoreless innings in a Cactus League outing and is seeking a larger pitching role in 2026; the Dodgers have left room for flexible rest while managing his two-way duties.

Shohei Ohtani returned to the mound in Cactus League play and completed 4 1/3 scoreless innings against the San Francisco Giants. It was his first spring pitching appearance in three years and his first competitive pitching since the World Series. Ohtani has undergone a second major elbow procedure, joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, and helped the team win World Series titles since his last Cactus League outing. He is seeking to pitch more innings in 2026 while balancing his role as a two-way player. Key facts: - Ohtani threw 61 pitches across 4 1/3 scoreless innings in the outing. - His fastball touched 99.9 mph and he recorded four strikeouts using a mix of splitter, curveball, slider, sweeper and sinker. - He issued two walks and hit Luis Matos with a splitter; Ohtani noted room for improvement in two-strike execution. - The Dodgers will begin the season without Blake Snell and Gavin Stone, increasing the importance of their pitching depth and Ohtani's availability. - Ohtani has said he wants to increase his innings and has mentioned Cy Young as a goal; the team has indicated flexibility on rest to accommodate his two-way responsibilities. Summary: Ohtani's spring outing served as a checkpoint in his plan to take on a larger pitching workload this year and showcased an expanded arsenal. He is scheduled for one more spring appearance before the regular season, and whether he reaches a full starter's workload this year is undetermined at this time.