Shohei Ohtani Hits Two Home Runs in First Spring Training Game as Designated Hitter for Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani announced his arrival in Los Angeles in spectacular fashion today, hitting two home runs including a grand slam in his first spring training appearance as a member of the Dodgers against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels, at Camelback Ranch. The two-way superstar, still recovering from elbow surgery that will keep him from pitching until 2027, showed no signs of rust at the plate as he gave Dodgers fans a tantalizing preview of what to expect from their $700 million investment.

Ohtani's first home run came in the third inning off Angels starter Reid Detmers, a towering 450-foot blast to center field that drew gasps from the crowd of 13,000 fans who had packed the stadium to witness his Dodgers debut. The Japanese sensation took his time circling the bases, acknowledging the standing ovation from both Dodgers and Angels supporters who appreciated the magnitude of the moment. "It felt good to be back in the batter's box competing again," Ohtani said through his interpreter after the game. "I've been working hard all winter to be ready for this moment."

The grand slam came in the sixth inning against Angels reliever Austin Warren, capping off a five-run rally that put the game out of reach for Los Angeles' other team. Ohtani worked the count full before turning on a hanging slider and depositing it well beyond the left-field wall, sending the predominantly pro-Dodgers crowd into a frenzy. The blast was measured at 462 feet and reached an exit velocity of 118 mph, showcasing the raw power that has made Ohtani one of baseball's most feared hitters when healthy.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was clearly impressed with what he witnessed from his new designated hitter, praising both Ohtani's plate discipline and his professional approach throughout the contest. "Shohei looked locked in from his first at-bat," Roberts observed. "You can see he's put in the work during the offseason, and his timing is already in midseason form. Having that kind of presence in our lineup is going to be huge for us this season." The manager indicated that Ohtani will likely bat second in the Dodgers' opening day lineup behind Mookie Betts.

The performance was particularly satisfying for Ohtani given that it came against his former organization, where he spent six seasons and won two American League MVP awards. Angels fans gave him a warm reception throughout the game, acknowledging his contributions to their franchise while also recognizing that he has moved on to pursue his championship aspirations with their crosstown rivals. "The Angels will always hold a special place in my heart," Ohtani reflected. "But I'm excited about this new chapter and what we can accomplish here in Los Angeles."

While Ohtani will be limited to hitting duties for the entire 2026 season as he continues his recovery from Tommy John surgery, his bat alone makes the Dodgers immediate World Series favorites. The organization has assembled one of the most talented rosters in recent memory, surrounding Ohtani with established stars like Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith while adding depth throughout their lineup and rotation. "Today was just a small sample of what Shohei brings to our team," Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said.

Ohtani finished the day 2-for-3 with two home runs, four RBIs, and two walks, setting an early tone for what promises to be one of the most anticipated individual seasons in recent baseball history. The Dodgers won the exhibition game 9-4, but all eyes were on their new superstar who appears ready to justify the enormous expectations that come with his record-breaking contract. "I just want to help this team win a championship," Ohtani concluded. "That's why I came here, and today felt like a good start toward that goal."