Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani sent a message to fans after Team Venezuela eliminated Team Samurai from the WBC.
Team Venezuela, who finished second in Pool D, took an 8-5 win over tournament favorites Japan, who are also the current holders of the WBC title. Wilyer Abreu hit a go-ahead home run for Team Venezuela in the sixth inning, and they held onto their lead until retiring Ohtani for the final out of the game.
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“Thank you fans for your support,” a translated version of Ohtani’s post read. “Your cheers had our backs every day. I didn’t get the results I wanted, and I feel my insignificance.
“Players, managers, coaches and all staff who supported the team. I am very grateful for the experience of playing baseball with you as a Japanese representative, even though it was only a short period of time.
Thank you so much sir.”
“We would also like to thank all the players from different countries and fans who played from the first round.
“And congratulations to Venezuela for winning.”
Shohei Ohtani takes to Instagram with a special message after Japan’s exit from the WBC:
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 16, 2026
“Your cheers had our backs every day. I am very grateful for the experience of playing baseball with you as a Japanese representative… congratulations to Venezuela for winning.” pic.twitter.com/25LRk26c14
Team Japan blazed through Pool C, steamrolling their opponents and finishing atop the group with a perfect 4-0 record.
Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Japan designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (16) rounds the bases after hitting a home run against Venezuela in the first inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesHow Did the Dodgers’ Japanese Representatives Perform at the WBC?
Despite the loss, both Ohtani and teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto were impressive during Team Japan’s campaign in the tournament.
Ohtani went 6-for-13 with three homers and seven RBIs, posting a 1.842 OPS — by far the best of any player with more than 10 plate appearances. He led off for Team Japan in their game against Venezuela, and hit a home run to begin the bottom of the first inning.
Yamamoto pitched twice in the tournament, and had strong showings in both of his outings.
He made his first appearance in pool play against Chinese Taipei, logging 2.2 shutout innings while striking out two batters. His next appearance came in their final game of the tournament, where he allowed two runs in four innings and struck out five batters.
The Dodgers expect Ohtani and Yamamoto back within the next couple of days, and the Orange County Register’s Bill Plunkett reported they are both expected to pitch before the end of spring training. Yamamoto will hope to be especially ramped up, as he will be the Dodgers’ Opening Day starter.
What did you think of Shohei Ohtani’s WBC performance?