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Shohei Ohtani dazzled in his final spring training start tonight at Dodger Stadium. The LA Dodgers faced the Angels in the last exhibition game before the 2026 regular season begins. Ohtani pitched AND hit, showcasing the two-way brilliance that will define the Dodgers’ season.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Game Date: March 24, 2026 at 5:10 PM PT at Dodger Stadium
- Ohtani Status: Made final spring tuneup as pitcher and batter, continuing two-way role
- Season Opener: Dodgers host Arizona Diamondbacks on March 26 at 5:30 PM
- Freeway Series: Last of three exhibition games between LA Dodgers and Angels
Ohtani Takes Final Spring Bow Before Season Begins
Shohei Ohtani made his last spring training appearance tonight in what may be the most anticipated tuneup of the 2026 season. The Dodgers superstar took the mound against the Angels, his final pitching preparation before opening day in two days. Manager Dave Roberts has set expectations high, hoping Ohtani makes a Cy Young-caliber run this season.
Ohtani will be pitching full-time for the first time since 2023. The Dodgers plan for him to hit on days when he pitches, continuing his two-way dominance. This decision marks a major shift in how the organization will utilize his unique talents throughout the season.
LA Dodgers battle Angels in spring training tonight at Dodger Stadium
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Back-to-Back Champs Ready to Defend Title
The LA Dodgers are the back-to-back World Series champions, defending their crown against the rest of baseball. Tonight’s game against the Angels served as a final test before the real games begin on March 26. The Dodgers have already scored 20 runs across the three-game Freeway Series exhibition run.
Spring training has been crucial for Ohtani to build timing and comfort in his new role. The Dodgers are confident that healthy Ohtani starting from day one will provide a significant advantage. His prime years begin now with the team totally healthy heading into the regular season.
Freeway Series Final Game Matchup Details
| Detail | Information |
| Date | March 24, 2026 |
| Time | 5:10 PM PT |
| Location | Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles |
| Broadcast | SportsNet LA, FanDuel Sports Network West |
Two-Way Revival Begins Spring Training Victory Lap
The Dodgers organization has committed fully to Ohtani’s two-way experiment. He will not have rest days or breaks from his pitching schedule, giving him maximum opportunity to find his rhythm. This approach is unprecedented in modern baseball for a player of Ohtani’s caliber and expectations.
Earlier in spring training, Ohtani participated in the World Baseball Classic for Team Japan, though he did not pitch in that tournament. Now, after weeks of Cactus League games and exhibition matchups, he approaches the regular season with renewed confidence and full health.
“We get to see Shohei Ohtani in his prime start the season pitching and hitting for the Dodgers.”
— According to Official Dodgers Statement
What Comes Next After Spring Training?
After tonight’s final tuneup, the Dodgers turn their attention to Opening Day in two days. Starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the mound for the home opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 26 at 5:30 PM. The NBC and Peacock broadcast will showcase the beginning of what could be a historic season.
The Dodgers return to Camelback Ranch is complete. Spring training has delivered plenty of excitement, but now the regular season begins. Ohtani, Yamamoto, and the rest of the defending champions are ready to prove that last year’s success was no fluke.
Sources
- ESPN – Complete team stats and game leaders for the Los Angeles Angels vs. Los Angeles Dodgers match
- True Blue LA – Dodgers vs. Angels spring training coverage and final game information
- Dodgers Nation – Shohei Ohtani final spring training start analysis and two-way status
