Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers was named the National League Pitcher of the Month for March and April 2026 [1].

The award marks a significant milestone for Ohtani, as it is his first career pitcher-of-the-month honor [2]. This recognition underscores his successful transition back to the mound after a period of limited pitching activity.

Ohtani's early-season dominance was highlighted by a 0.60 ERA across his first five starts [3]. He also recorded 10 strikeouts in his first pitcher-only game in five years [4]. This performance follows a period where Ohtani focused heavily on his role as a hitter, recording 347 designated hitter appearances since joining the Dodgers [4].

In total, Ohtani has made 20 combined appearances as a designated hitter and starting pitcher [4]. His current success makes him the first Dodgers pitcher to earn the NL Pitcher of the Month title since Yoshinobu Yamamoto won the award in September 2025 [5].

Major League Baseball announced the honor on May 4, 2026 [6]. While some reports focused specifically on the month of April, official records confirm the award covers the combined March and April period [1].

Ohtani continues to balance the demands of a dual-threat role in the National League. His ability to maintain an elite ERA, while contributing as a designated hitter, remains a rarity in the modern era of professional baseball.

“Shohei Ohtani was named the National League Pitcher of the Month for March and April 2026.”

Ohtani's first pitcher-of-the-month award validates his recovery and return to elite form on the mound. By combining a sub-1.00 ERA with his established offensive production, Ohtani is redefining the expectations for two-way players in the National League and providing the Dodgers with a rare competitive advantage.