TOKYO – It’s officially named the World Baseball Classic. But for the Group C games in Japan, simply call it the world according to Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani’s life-size image is all over the Tokyo Dome, and racks of Ohtani jerseys – about $125 each – dominate the adjacent merchandise center. Japan begins play on Friday against Taiwan with South Korea, Australia and the Czech Republic also in the group.
Japan’s Shohei Ohtani, left, stands during a group photo session along with other team members before their practice session ahead of the World Baseball Classic games in Tokyo, Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Louise Delmotte – AP
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Japan’s Shohei Ohtani, center, smiles during a group photo session along with other team members before their practice session ahead of the World Baseball Classic games in Tokyo, Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Louise Delmotte – AP
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Japan’s players including Shohei Ohtani, front center left, and Japan’s Seiya Suzuki have a conversation as they wait for their group photos taken before their practice session in Tokyo, Wednesday, March 4, 2026, ahead of their World Baseball Classic games.
Hiro Komae – AP
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Japan fans react during the Women’s Asia Cup soccer match between Japan and Taiwan in Perth, Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Gary Day – AP
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