LOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani quotes from his highly anticipated first start of the 2026 season against the Cleveland Guardians, giving the Dodgers exactly what they needed on the mound.
Working through tough weather conditions, Ohtani completed six innings while staying within a controlled pitch count, showing both efficiency and composure. After the game, he spoke with both English and Japanese media about his outing, his approach, and what still needs improvement moving forward.
Below are the best quotes from both sessions.
Best Quotes — English Media
“First of all, I’m just really happy I was able to get out there and pitch. Being able to go six innings was a good step, especially in tough weather conditions.”
“To go through six innings under a limited pitch count, I think that part was really good.”
“I do feel like I’m improving every year. That’s always the goal… and hopefully at the end of the season, I can look back and say this was my best one.”
“My overall feeling on the mound was good, but early on I think I was a little too amped up. That’s something I’ll look to adjust next time.”
“If I can stay relaxed and pitch efficiently, I think I can get through a lot of innings over the course of the season.”
“Conditioning is going to be really important. Maintaining strength throughout the year is key if I want to pitch a full season.”
“2022 was probably my best season overall… so if I can get back to that level, especially in terms of durability, that would be ideal.”
“For me, it’s about being ready whenever I’m asked to go. The goal is to be healthy and ready for October.”
Best Quotes — Japanese Media (Translated)
“With my curveball, I’m mixing speeds more — some slower, some firmer — depending on the count and what I’m trying to do.”
“If I feel like a certain pitch is working better in the moment, I’ll adjust and go with that. It’s the same with the sweeper.”
“I’ve been working from a slightly different position on the rubber, even with no runners on. It’s helped with the movement and control of my breaking pitches.”
“That adjustment has also helped reduce stress on my body, and right now it feels like the best fit for me.”
“I think the ABS system is good overall — for players, for fans, and for umpires. It’s something that benefits everyone.”
“More than anything, I’m just happy I started the season healthy and was able to come off the mound without any issues.”
“If I can repeat that each time out — no overreactions, no overthinking — I think it’ll lead to a good season.”
“Today, whether I threw lightly or with more effort, the results didn’t change much. That tells me I can stay more relaxed and reduce overall strain.”
“That was one of the biggest positives from today.”
Quick Context
Ohtani’s first outing of the season checked multiple boxes for the Dodgers: health, efficiency, and the ability to adjust in-game.
If this start is any indication, the focus isn’t just dominance — it’s sustainability over a full season, with October clearly the end goal.
More Dodgers Coverage:
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
Related