Shohei Ohtani continues to redefine what is possible at the major league level, further cementing his place among the most extraordinary talents the sport has ever seen.
Any lingering debate about his historical standing faded during a remarkable postseason run that featured multiple signature performances. He launched three home runs against the Brewers in Game 4 of the NLCS while also delivering 6 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts, a showing that stands among the most dominant single-game efforts in postseason history.
Later, in Game 3 of the World Series against the Blue Jays, he reached base 9 times, setting a new major league postseason record.
Even with expectations set at an almost unreachable level, Ohtani remained elite throughout the 2025 regular season. Although he did not replicate a 50-50 campaign, he still blasted 55 home runs and stole 20 bases across 158 games. He finished with an on-base plus slugging (OPS) north of 1.000 for the third consecutive year and captured his third straight MVP award, including his second in the National League.
By virtually any standard, it was another historic season, even if it represented a modest statistical step back from his previous peak.
What to Expect from Shohei Ohtani in 2026 Fantasy Baseball
Ohtani’s greatest strength in fantasy baseball points leagues is the unmatched scoring ceiling created by his two-way profile. As a hitter, he generates elite power, draws walks, and produces consistent extra-base damage, all of which translate directly into high weekly totals.
Few players can single-handedly swing a matchup, and Ohtani remains at the very top of that shortlist. His return to form on the mound late in the season only amplifies his value, as the ability to contribute as both a high-impact bat and a frontline arm creates a scoring advantage no other player can replicate.
There are, however, strategic considerations for fantasy managers. In weekly lineup formats, Ohtani is still best deployed in the utility spot most of the time due to the complexity of managing his pitching schedule. Additionally, his recent return from a second Tommy John surgery means workload management could remain part of the Dodgers’ long-term plan.
While he appeared fully healthy by season’s end, the organization has every incentive to preserve his effectiveness deep into October, which could occasionally limit his pitching volume.
Entering 2026, Ohtani is expected to operate as a full two-way player from the outset, dramatically raising his overall fantasy ceiling. A realistic projection includes elite home run production, strong on-base numbers, and meaningful contributions on the mound with high strikeout potential. The combination provides both a massive weekly floor and league-winning upside.
From a strengths perspective, Ohtani offers unparalleled versatility, top-tier power, elite run production, and the rare ability to influence multiple statistical categories simultaneously. His weaknesses are relatively minor but worth noting: roster management can be more complicated, and the Dodgers may monitor his pitching workload to protect his health.
As far as position player hierarchy for fantasy baseball points leagues, I rank him at Tier 1 ahead of everyone else, even Aaron Judge.
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