Shohei Ohtani: MLB’s Record-Breaking Superstar on the Cusp of Global Dominance

Shohei Ohtani, a 30-year-old MLB All-Star athlete, has captivated the United States sports audience with his remarkable performance, transitioning from the Los Angeles Angels to the Los Angeles Dodgers last December. Ohtani’s post-season debut in the Division Series has heightened expectations as fans anticipate witnessing his impact on the game.

One aspect distinguishing Ohtani from others is his exceptional ability as a two-way player, performing at a high level both as a pitcher and a hitter. In 2021, he became the first athlete selected for the All-Star game in both roles, an achievement many in baseball history have scarcely imagined. Author Joe Posnanski praised this dual skillset, noting, “The idea that somebody could be so good at both was mind-blowing.”

Ohtani began his sporting journey in Japan, where playing as a two-way player is more common. His talents were evident early on, as highlighted by 2008 World Series winner Chase Utley, who recalled a scout saying, “This guy is by far the best player I’ve ever seen.” After polishing his skills in Japan, Ohtani made his U.S. debut with the Angels in 2018, quickly becoming the American League’s Rookie of the Year.

Ohtani’s career has been punctuated by accolades, including being named the AL’s Most Valuable Player in 2021 and 2023. Such distinctions underscore his prowess, even as he faced injuries. Earlier in December, he signed a lucrative contract with the Dodgers, surpassing the financial standings of top athletes such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Patrick Mahomes.

Off the field, Ohtani has garnered significant income, evidenced by $60 million in earnings, according to Forbes. His marketability is further cemented through trading-card deals. David Leiner, President of Trading Cards at Topps, described Ohtani as “a really likeable guy” who is a compelling face for baseball.

Despite not pitching this season due to elbow surgery, Ohtani added another achievement to his list by breaking his previous records for home runs and stolen bases. He concluded this season with 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, becoming the first to achieve over 50 homers and stolen bases in one season. “He couldn’t pitch this year so then he blows our minds as a hitter,” Posnanski commented.

During his Angels tenure, Ohtani did not experience post-season play, but joining the Dodgers, a team with consistent play-off appearances, changes that narrative. His presence is anticipated to help the Dodgers in their quest for another World Series title, adding to their 2020 victory. Ohtani’s global appeal remains robust, with fans in Japan and the U.S., and his stature could rise further with a successful post-season performance.

Sports journalist Chase Utley observed, “Ohtani can really do it all,” acknowledging his extraordinary capability on the field. The excitement surrounding Ohtani’s post-season debut is tangible, with Posnanski pointing out the significance of such moments for greatness, surmising that a standout performance in the World Series could elevate him to the level of iconic athletes like LeBron James and Stephen Curry.