Shohei Ohtani : The Sho Must Go On
Baseball’s most electrifying two-way star makes a historic switch to join the Los Angeles Dodgers.
On December 10, 2023, the baseball world was shaken by the news that Shohei Ohtani had agreed to a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers after six years with the Los Angeles Angels.
Raising the curtain
Born in Oshu, Japan, on July 5, 1994, Shohei Ohtani began his professional baseball career with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) before transitioning to MLB in 2017. Renowned for his exceptional dual abilities in pitching and hitting, Ohtani garnered the interest of all 30 MLB teams. Ultimately, the Los Angeles Angels secured him with a six-year contract after a competitive bidding war.
Ohtani’s rookie season in 2018 proved nothing short of exceptional. He clinched the American League Rookie of the Year Award, a rare feat for a primarily pitching-oriented player since 1978. Displaying his prowess on the mound, he struck out 63 batters in 51.2 innings. Simultaneously, at the plate, he showcased his power, blasting 22 home runs and delivering 61 RBIs.
Despite an incredible debut, subsequent seasons were hindered by injuries. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018, limiting his pitching appearances to just two in 2019. However, Ohtani made a remarkable comeback in 2021, displaying his dual talents once more. He excelled throughout the season, smashing 46 home runs and securing the AL MVP award.
His 2022 season arguably stands as the pinnacle for any two-way player in MLB history. His dominance on the mound was evident with a 15–9 record, a stellar 2.33 ERA, and an impressive 219 strikeouts across 166 innings. Simultaneously, at the plate, he continued his power surge, notching 34 home runs and 95 RBIs.
Continuing his incredible form into 2023, Ohtani added another 44 home runs and 95 RBIs to his name while maintaining his dual prowess, amassing 167 strikeouts in 132 innings.
Despite establishing himself as a legendary figure, drawing comparisons to Babe Ruth, and achieving 2x AL MVP awards, 3x All-Star selections, and 3x Los Angeles Angels Player of the Year honors, Ohtani had yet to secure any silverware with the Angels. Which leads to..
The Largest Contract in American Sport History
Ohtani announced on Instagram that he was moving out of the red of Anaheim and into the blue of Los Angeles, posting a picture of the Dodgers logo, accompanying it with the caption — “I have decided to choose the Dodgers as my next team.”
“ First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved with the Angels organization and the fans who have supported me over the past six years, as well as to everyone involved with each team that was part of this negotiation process. Especially to the Angels fans who supported me through all the ups and downs, your guys’ support and cheer meant the world to me. The six years I spent with the Angels will remain etched in my heart forever.
Ohtani’s new contract worth $700 million is the largest in Major League Baseball history, surpassing the previous record of $426.5 million set by Mike Trout, Ohtani’s former teammate with the Angels. For comparison, Lionel Messi — the highest paid MLS player — earns anywhere between $50 to $60m per year, while Patrick Mahome of the NFL nets in around $45m.
A New Dawn in LA
Ohtani’s move to the National League now sees him out of pitching contention for the new season due to his lingering injuries, but he will be present as a designated hitter until 2025. Lining up alongside names like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, the Japanese superstar is sure to take the division by storm. The Dodgers boast a considerably superior record compared to the Angels, who have failed to make the postseason throughout Ohtani’s tenure with them. Given Ohtani’s caliber, it was an expected decision for him to seek a team capable of maximizing his abilities.
Having secured 11 consecutive postseason appearances leading up to this season, there’s little doubt that Ohtani will significantly contribute to the Dodgers’ bid for a 12th consecutive postseason berth. The forthcoming season promises excitement, especially if Shohei-Sama, as he’s affectionately known, secures a postseason spot — something of substantial significance in his Major League Baseball career.
大谷 翔平, Welcome to Hollywood. It’s officially Sho-Time.
