The Los Angeles Dodgers took care of business against the New York Yankees during the 2024 World Series despite Shohei Ohtani partially dislocating his left shoulder in Game 2.
The two-way star did not miss any time, but he was clearly hampered by the injury as he went just 2-for-19 during the six-game series.
Although he didn’t contribute as much as he would have hoped, Ohtani accomplished his biggest goal of winning the World Series. “I’m thrilled,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts answered when asked how happy he is for Ohtani.
“Six years in the States, arguably the best player in the big leagues. He committed to us and he wanted to play for a championship. For it to come to fruition in his first year is pretty remarkable.
“What Shohei’s done to our ballclub, the Dodger fanbase domestically, globally, I just don’t think you can quantify. And he’s just such a good guy.
“He was playing with one arm in the postseason. Most guys would probably tap out, but he was going to not be denied at playing and posting and being in the lineup.
“So for him to hoist that World Series trophy, that’s something he dreamed of, I’m sure, for quite some time.”
Roberts believes that Ohtani was still able to make a positive impact for the Dodgers by simply being in the lineup. “It helped us because if Shohei’s in the lineup, it still is a presence,” Roberts began.
“I think that what Freddie was going through certainly helped Shohei and convinced Shohei to be in the lineup too. I just think he earned even more respect from his teammates by being able to play with one arm.”
Next up for Ohtani is determining whether or not he will need to undergo shoulder surgery.
Shohei Ohtani ‘honored’ to win World Series with Dodgers
Ohtani winning the World Series capped off his first taste of October baseball after previously failing to advance to the postseason with the Los Angeles Angels.
“I’m honored to be able to be part of a season where we played the longest, and to be able to get to know this team,” he said through translator Will Ireton. “My first year and experience winning a World Series has been a tremendous honor.”
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