GLENDALE, Ariz. — The first two days of full-squad workouts at Camelback Ranch have carried a familiar feel — championship mentality.
For a club chasing a third straight title in 2026, there has been no talk of history, no grand declarations. Instead, it has been about preparation. Manager Dave Roberts made that clear in his opening address to the team. As he’s done in past championship seasons, Roberts didn’t carry the meeting alone.
First full squad workout starts with a speech from Doc! #DodgersST pic.twitter.com/pt1DH3vwM7
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 17, 2026
Before the first full-squad workout, several players addressed the team — including two of the club’s biggest offseason additions: Kyle Tucker and Edwin Díaz. Roberts said he felt it would be “powerful” for the clubhouse to hear why both players chose Los Angeles.
Tucker spoke about competing on the biggest stage and embracing expectations. Díaz emphasized unfinished business and the draw of pitching meaningful October innings.
The message resonated. Veterans nodded. Young players listened. The room felt aligned. That’s the tone Roberts wanted.
One of the early camp storylines is the construction of the batting order. Roberts confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will again lead off. No debate there. Behind him? Still fluid.
Roberts said he “likes” Mookie Betts in the No. 3 spot — and notably added that it would not change based on pitcher handedness. That’s a significant vote of confidence after what Roberts labeled an offensive “outlier” season for Betts in 2025.
“The way he played shortstop last year,” Roberts said, “and expecting him to be better offensively this year, he will be in the MVP conversation.”
Betts’ defensive transition to full-time shortstop drew praise throughout last season. Roberts belief is that with stability at the position, the bat rebounds to its typical elite level.
The No. 2 and No. 4 spots remain undecided. Roberts acknowledged he’s weighing combinations between Tucker and Freddie Freeman, seeking the right balance of on-base ability and run production.
For now, experimentation continues.
Betts also revealed a long-term goal that extends beyond 2026. When asked about the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, he didn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely,” Betts said. “I would’ve done the WBC if it wasn’t for the timing of having a child. Kids are always a blessing. If I get the opportunity to play in the Olympics, absolutely.”
With baseball returning to the Olympic stage in 2028, the idea of Betts representing Team USA on home soil adds another layer to an already decorated resume.
On the field, Roberts provided a glimpse of the weekend pitching plan.
Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) throws during a Spring Training workout at Camelback Ranch.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto is expected to start one of the Dodgers’ first two Cactus League games. Ohtani is slated to serve as designated hitter in both contests as he continues his pitching progression.
The early workload is measured, intentional — consistent with the organization’s emphasis on long-term readiness.
Through two days, there’s an unmistakable steadiness around this group.
Veterans reinforcing standards. Newcomers embracing expectations. The manager preaching preparation over prophecy. If there’s a theme at Camelback Ranch so far, it isn’t about rings. It’s about work.
