LOS ANGELES — THE MOMENT met Shohei Ohtani this past Friday night, as it has repeatedly throughout the month — it was the eighth inning, the team was trailing by a run, and Game 1 of a highly anticipated World Series filled with intensity was underway. Ohtani launched a line drive that struck the right-field fence, quickly got up from a slide at second base, and shouted toward his teammates. Realizing the ball had rolled away, he dashed to third, putting the tying run just 90 feet away. Ohtani let out another roar and encouraged the sold-out crowd at Dodger Stadium to join him in the excitement. After a pitching change, he returned to the dugout, embracing and high-fiving as many teammates as possible before focusing on the task at hand.
At that moment, many uncertainties remained. Ohtani had not yet crossed home plate on Mookie Betts’ sacrifice fly, and Freddie Freeman had not yet hit the walk-off grand slam in the 10th inning, which would ultimately secure the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ 6-3 win against the New York Yankees. Yet, for Ohtani, none of that seemed to matter. He was once again relishing his moment — a type of moment he had spent his entire life yearning for.
“Simply put,” Ohtani stated recently, “I’m grateful to be in this environment.”
Having relocated to the United States seven years ago, Ohtani aimed to contend for championships and etch his name in the annals of sports history, goals that are inherently intertwined. He spent his first six seasons in Anaheim, California, without experiencing even a single important September game. Toward the end of his tenure with the Angels, a video emerged showing Ohtani on the brink of tears following a devastating loss on August 3, 2023. Although he kept his pain hidden, many around him felt the impact of the defeats.
It appears that winning has unlocked Ohtani’s true potential. As this postseason approached and unfolded, not only has his performance improved, but his emotions have evolved as well – transforming into a pure, unfiltered joy that transcends language, diverting from his usual stoic demeanor and rendering him, in many ways, more relatable.
“He’s a regular dude, just like you and me,” Betts remarked. “He just has a superpower.”
In his inaugural postseason, Shohei Ohtani has shed his stoic image and revealed an authenticity that has only amplified his stardom. Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL commissioner Rob Manfred describes Ohtani as possessing a “regal bearing.” While the cameras constantly capture his every move, his outlook remains upbeat. His unique popularity stems from his ability to excel in a two-way role and break records; however, Manfred emphasized, “There’s a charisma, an appeal about him that draws people.”
As October progresses, another aspect is becoming evident: swagger. Ohtani is strolling after hitting home runs, self-booing in rival ballparks, <a href="https://x.
screaming into the ears of unsuspecting teammates, responding to inquiries about his nerves, and shouting at umpires interrupting plays, has showcased an authenticity that has frequently been hard to find.
This is an additional facet that MLB aims to take advantage of.
“His competitive spirit and unwavering desire to win, beyond personal achievements, have truly come to the forefront,” Manfred mentioned during a phone call. “This adds a compelling dimension to his persona.”
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In preparation for the playoffs, MLB featured 113 outdoor advertising placements in Tokyo. Ohtani’s initial postseason series resulted in unprecedented viewership numbers in his home country. Game 5 of the National League Division Series, which showcased a historic duel between Yu Darvish and Yoshinobu Yamamoto— the first postseason face-off between two Japanese-born starting pitchers— attained the highest viewership ever for an MLB postseason game in Japan, with 12.9 million viewers. An additional 7.5 million viewers tuned in domestically, based on data from MLB.
The viewership figures from Japan for the remaining NLCS games are yet to be released, as those games were broadcasted on cable instead of over-the-air networks. Nonetheless, it marked the highest-rated LCS round in the last seven years based solely on U.S. averages. Ohtani, frequently featured in a popular Fox graphic that indicated when he might bat again, was the subject of numerous memes on X — significantly influenced those figures.
Manfred views this World Series, featuring not only Ohtani but also Betts, Freeman, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Gerrit Cole from two of the sport’s flagship franchises, as “an opportunity for us to expand our reach both nationally and globally.” He aspires for the star power to resonate beyond regional boundaries.
“Our primary initiative at the moment is to broaden the national appeal of our game,” Manfred conveyed. “Historically, our coverage, especially on the broadcasting front, has been heavily regional— focused on local markets. The combination of two iconic franchises with exceptional athletes offers us a chance to break out of the mindset of solely being interested in New York or L.A. and shift towards piquing interest across the entire United States.”
THE DODGERS SIGNED Ohtani, believing that aligning his stardom with their brand would benefit their business, making a $700 million guarantee appear feasible. However, their forecasts, according to CEO Stan Kasten, “turned out to be severely underestimated.” This year, the Dodgers have forged sponsorship deals with 11 different Japanese companies. Two giveaways of Ohtani bobbleheads saw fans lining up outside the stadium up to 10 hours before the game. Tours led by Japanese guides at Dodger Stadium—offered twice daily, four days a week—remained consistently full this season.
They failed to anticipate all these factors. There was yet another they could not foresee.
“One unexpected benefit that emerged was the cultural connection that developed once we passed that initial day or two in Korea,” Kasten remarked.
What commenced with ESPN
The inquiries from The Los Angeles Times concerning wire transfers from Ohtani’s bank account to an offshore bookmaker occurred while the Dodgers were opening their season in South Korea in March. This culminated in the revelation by his longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who confessed to embezzling nearly $17 million to settle a series of gambling debts. Following the dismissal of Mizuhara, who has since pleaded guilty to charges of bank and tax fraud, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discussed how the removal of a constant ”buffer” might enhance communication with Ohtani, potentially encouraging him to be more engaging.
The subsequent seven months confirmed this notion.
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“Initially, we didn’t fully grasp and leverage the personality he possessed, the joyful nature he exhibited — that only became apparent after we worked through that dreadful opening day in Korea,” Kasten noted. ”Once that side emerged, and we had better comprehension of each other, and he realized we were all rooting for one another, it made him more open.”
However, early on, there were some challenges.
These issues revealed themselves under pressure. By the end of April, Ohtani had recorded seven hits in 38 at-bats with runners in scoring position. Despite his impressive overall statistics, his performance in crucial scoring situations fell sharply short during the season’s initial five months. By late August, his OPS with runners in scoring position stood at .682, significantly more than 300 points lower than his overall OPS.
“At the start of the season, I had a strong desire to blend in with the team quickly,” Ohtani explained through an interpreter. “I think that desire affected my at-bats. As the season continued and we moved into the second half, I started to feel more in control during my at-bats.”
AS THE STAKES rose in a late-season division race, his teammates observed that the intensity of playoff baseball revived him.
On the night he secured his first postseason appearance and became a founding member of the 50/50 club, Ohtani delivered one of the greatest single-game performances in history. He went 6-for-6 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and two stolen bases in Miami on September 19. This marked the start of a remarkable 10-game run in which he achieved 12 hits in 14 at-bats with runners in scoring position.
Ohtani concluded his regular season just four points shy of a Triple Crown, boasting a .310 batting average, 54 homers, 130 RBIs, and 59 stolen bases, effectively clinching the first-ever MVP award for a full-time designated hitter. By the time October arrived, any apprehensions about how Ohtani would handle postseason pressure dissipated.
“It never seems like there’s a moment too big or too small,” Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy remarked. “When he steps into the box, you sense something special is about to happen. More times than not, he delivers. He’s incredible.”
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Ohtani’s second postseason at-bat, which occurred early in Game 1 of the National League Division Series, sent shockwaves through Dodger Stadium. His 31st at-bat, late in Game 3 of the subsequent round, left a packed Citi Field in disbelief. The interval between those two moments—a scorching shot over the right-center-field fence in Los Angeles and a soaring drive that soared well above the right-field foul pole in New York—created a striking contrast.
Ohtani had spent much of the summer addressing doubts about his capacity to perform during crucial game moments. Now, the narrative had flipped.
occurring. That last home run made him the first player from the expansion era to gather 17 hits in a span of 20 at-bats with runners in scoring position. Remarkably, by this time, he was also hitless in 22 postseason at-bats when nobody was on base.
Ohtani consistently maintained that his strategy – aimed at inflicting maximum damage irrespective of the situation – had remained unchanged. At one moment, he attributed it to an anomaly. However, Freeman teased him regardless. Consequently, the next afternoon in Game 4 of the NL Championship Series, Ohtani launched a leadoff home run – of course, with no one on base – and pointed towards Freeman as he began his round of the bases.
Several players from the Dodgers erupted in laughter.
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“He’s got a much larger personality than any of us anticipated,” remarked Dodgers utility player Enrique Hernández. “He loves to joke around and have fun. His youthful energy is wonderful. I believe that helps him detach from the immense pressure he faces, which comes not only from being the best player in the game but potentially the greatest of all time.”
This week, during the gap between clinching the pennant and the commencement of a much-awaited World Series, videos of Ohtani celebrating have consistently filled digital platforms. Whether he’s being doused in champagne by Jack Flaherty, sharing beer pours with Roberts or playfully scolding others for their sobriety, Ohtani’s exuberance has been remarkable. These moments showcase a man truly reveling in his first experience of postseason play.
“We’ve observed his emotions evolve throughout the year,” noted Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia. “It’s him becoming more of himself and feeling comfortable expressing it.”
Perhaps it is now – amidst a star-studded team, within the fierce atmosphere of late October baseball, at a time when MLB is eager for its biggest star to shine on its grandest stage – that Ohtani’s authentic self has come to the forefront.
“Over the course of the season, I believe he has genuinely become who he is at his core,” Roberts stated. “He tends to be very reserved and quiet, keeping to himself. Yet, I think he inherently possesses a goofy side. He’s fun-loving and a remarkable competitor. So when he witnesses others enjoying themselves, I think we’ve seen more of that side emerge as the season has progressed. It’s beneficial for him because it’s authentic. This is important for our players, too, to realize that ‘Hey, this guy isn’t just a machine. He’s a real person with feelings.’
# From Stoic to Star: Shohei Ohtani’s Journey of Joy in the World Series Spotlight
## The Rise of Shohei Ohtani
### Early Life and Background
Shohei Ohtani was born on July 5, 1994, in Oshu, Japan. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Ohtani showed immense talent in baseball from a young age. His dedication to the sport was evident as he excelled in both pitching and hitting.
- **Birthplace**: Oshu, Japan
– **Birth Date**: July 5, 1994
– **Position**: Pitcher and Designated Hitter
### Transition to Major League Baseball
In 2012, Ohtani became the first player since 2000 to enter the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) draft right out of high school. After several impressive seasons with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, he made the leap to Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2018, signing with the Los Angeles Angels.
## The Stoic Philosophy
### Embracing Stoicism in Baseball
Stoicism teaches resilience, self-control, and the importance of focusing on what one can control. Ohtani embodies these principles both on and off the field. His approach to the game highlights a mental toughness that is crucial in high-pressure situations, such as the World Series.
#### Key Stoic Principles
– **Focus on the Present**: Ohtani’s ability to concentrate on the moment helps him perform under pressure.
– **Endurance through Challenges**: Overcoming injuries and setbacks, Ohtani’s resilience is a testament to his stoic mindset.
– **Adaptability**: Switching between pitching and hitting showcases his versatility and willingness to embrace change.
### The Influence of Stoicism on Performance
By applying stoic principles, Ohtani handles expectations and pressures effectively. His calm demeanor on the mound and at bat allows him to concentrate fully on the task at hand, making him a formidable opponent.
## Joyful Journey to the World Series
### The Road to the World Series
The path to the World Series is often fraught with challenges. Ohtani’s journey epitomizes the pursuit of excellence, including various ups and downs:
- **Injuries**: Ohtani faced significant injury setbacks, including Tommy John surgery in 2018, yet he persevered.
– **Outstanding Seasons**: His MVP-worthy performances in 2021 and 2022 showcased his dual-threat capabilities, establishing him as a baseball star.
- **Team Success**: The Angels have struggled to clinch postseason berths, which adds to the significance of Ohtani’s individual success.
#### Performance Highlights
| Year | Achievements |
|——|—————————————-|
| 2021 | MVP Award; 46 Home Runs |
| 2022 | All-Star Selection; 34 Home Runs |
| 2023 | World Series Appearance; 15 Wins (Pitching) |
### The World Series Spotlight
As Ohtani enters the World Series spotlight, the atmosphere is electric. Playing in the championship series is a dream for any player, and Ohtani’s journey from a stoic athlete to a celebrated star encapsulates the joy of achieving that dream.
– **Emotional Impact**: The thrill of competing for a championship adds layers of emotion to Ohtani’s performance, reflecting both the joy and pressure of the moment.
– **Fan Expectations**: With a massive fan following, Ohtani’s presence in the World Series elevates the stakes and excitement.
## Benefits of Shohei Ohtani’s Approach to the Game
### Mental Resilience
– **Consistent Performance**: Maintaining focus during high-stress situations leads to fewer mistakes.
– **Better Decision Making**: Stoicism encourages rational thinking, allowing Ohtani to make strategic plays.
### Physical Preparedness
– **Injury Management**: Ohtani’s understanding of his body helps him navigate the physical demands of baseball effectively.
– **Well-Rounded Skills**: His dual role as a pitcher and hitter makes him a unique asset to his team.
## Practical Tips for Young Athletes
### Learning from Ohtani
Young athletes can draw inspiration from Ohtani’s journey by adopting some practical strategies:
#### Building a Strong Mindset
– **Practice Mindfulness**: Engage in activities that promote present-moment awareness.
– **Set Goals**: Define clear, achievable goals, and regularly assess your progress.
#### Physical Training
– **Cross-Training**: Develop multiple skill sets, similar to Ohtani’s pitching and hitting roles.
– **Injury Prevention**: Focus on conditioning and flexibility exercises to minimize injury risk.
## Case Studies: The Impact of Ohtani’s Journey
Ohtani’s influence extends beyond just personal achievement; he serves as a role model for aspiring athletes:
### International Impact
- **Increased Interest in Baseball**: Ohtani’s success in MLB has generated significant interest in baseball, particularly in Japan.
– **Cultural Bridge**: His unique background brings together fans from diverse cultures, promoting unity through sports.
### Inspiring the Next Generation
Youth leagues and baseball academies across the globe have seen an uptick in participation rates, inspired by Ohtani’s incredible success and charisma.
## First-Hand Experience: A Day at the World Series
### Game Day Atmosphere
Attending a World Series game featuring Shohei Ohtani is an unforgettable experience. Fans arrive early, donning jerseys and carrying signs, all eager to witness history. The anticipation builds as the stadium fills with energy, and Ohtani’s name is announced.
### Interactions with Fans
Fans often share their personal stories about how Ohtani has inspired them, whether through his incredible skills or his stoic demeanor in the face of adversity. The connection between athlete and fan is palpable, creating a unique and electric atmosphere.
## Conclusion: Enjoying the Journey
Shohei Ohtani’s journey from a stoic young player in Japan to a World Series star is a remarkable story of resilience, talent, and joy. His ability to embrace challenges while maintaining mental clarity is a lesson for all athletes. As he continues to shine in the spotlight, Ohtani will undoubtedly inspire future generations to pursue their dreams in the world of sports, reminding us all that joy lies in the journey, not just the destination.
