By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
As the next World Baseball Classic approaches, several players connected to the Los Angeles Dodgers organization will represent their home countries on baseball’s international stage. The tournament, which brings together many of the world’s top professional players, will feature Dodgers stars and prospects competing for national pride while showcasing the club’s global reach.
From established superstars to developing minor league talent, the Dodgers’ presence in the international tournament reflects the organization’s strong pipeline and its influence across multiple continents.
Star Power for Japan and Team USA
Two of the most prominent Dodgers players expected to participate are Japanese standouts Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who will represent Japan.
Ohtani, one of baseball’s most recognizable international figures, is expected to contribute at the plate during the tournament but will not pitch. His presence in the lineup alone adds considerable firepower for Japan, which has historically been one of the strongest teams in the World Baseball Classic.
Yamamoto, meanwhile, is confirmed to be part of Japan’s starting rotation, bringing elite pitching talent to the defending powerhouse. His performance will be closely watched by Dodgers fans eager to see the right-hander compete in a high-stakes international setting.
Team USA will also feature Dodgers players.
Veteran ace Clayton Kershaw is slated to participate as a pitcher, bringing leadership and postseason experience to the American squad. Dodgers catcher Will Smith will also suit up for Team USA, adding depth behind the plate and a reliable bat in the lineup.
For many players, the tournament provides a rare opportunity to represent their countries while competing alongside or against some of Major League Baseball’s biggest names.
International Representation Across the Dodgers System
Beyond the major league roster, several players connected to the Dodgers organization will represent their nations as well.
Hyeseong Kim is expected to play for Team Korea, continuing the Dodgers’ growing connection with Asian baseball talent.
Pitcher Antonio Knowles will represent Great Britain, while Shawndrick Oduber is set to pitch for the Netherlands, a team that has consistently produced competitive performances in the tournament thanks to strong Caribbean and European baseball programs.
In addition, infielder Jake Gelof, currently in the minor leagues, is also expected to participate in the tournament, further demonstrating how international competition extends beyond the major league roster.
Another notable name in the tournament field is closer Edwin Díaz, who will represent Puerto Rico, one of the most passionate baseball nations in the event.
A Global Game
For Dodgers fans, the tournament offers a chance to see familiar faces competing on a global stage while celebrating the international diversity that defines today’s game.
Baseball analysts often note that the World Baseball Classic has grown significantly in prestige since its debut in 2006, with many players now viewing it as a meaningful opportunity to represent their home countries.
“Any time you can wear your country’s uniform, it means something special,” one longtime baseball observer said. “For fans, it’s also exciting because you get to see teammates become rivals for a few weeks.”
For the Dodgers organization, the wide range of national representation highlights both its scouting reach and the international nature of modern baseball.
As the tournament unfolds, fans in Los Angeles—and around the world—will be watching closely as Dodgers players help lead their countries in pursuit of international baseball glory.