Since joining the Los Angeles Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani became the center of attention around the organization because of his larger-than-life ability and the droves of fans that support him.
The Dodgers benefitted in several areas on the field, and that success extended to the front office and the team’s overall financial success as well. They ultimately went on to win the World Series in Ohtani’s first year with the club, and he was able to start showing off his emotion on the biggest stage.
But even when the moment evoked great emotion, Ohtani maintained a cool head with deep-rooted principles in mind.
Mookie Betts spoke on his teammate’s juggle of being an all-world talent, but also a fun-loving person who remains a respectful player.
“He’s a regular guy,” Betts said. “He’s just a regular dude, just like you and me. He just has a superpower that you and me can’t do. So that’s pretty much it. But he’s a normal dude, goes about his work just like everyone else.
“I wish I could explain something he does different, but he doesn’t do anything different.”
Betts also noted that Ohtani is quite the jokester when it comes to conversation, never missing a moment to lighten the mood. The 30-year-old has developed relationships where he can open up to show what else he has to offer.
“He has little one-liners through conversations,” Betts added. “Sometimes when we start talking, it may get a little too fast. But when he understands it, he has little one-liners that he’ll come out of left field with.
“But other than that, Sho’s a pretty cool, calm, collected. He just kind of sits and chills and does his thing.”
The Dodgers are a better team with Ohtani on the field, that is unquestioned. But his calm mind in the game’s biggest moments, coupled with an infectious personality, make him as unique as they come.
Shohei Ohtani to expand his game in 2025
Ohtani’s repertoire is set to expand when he steps on a pitching mound this season. His two-way prowess was a huge part of what made him such a dominant player on all fronts.
Being out of action from pitching for over a year hurt his overall value, but Ohtani’s 2024 season at the plate was beyond anyone’s initial expectations.
The Dodgers stand to gain, if healthy, one of the best starting pitchers around MLB. Even with his reduction in stolen bases, Ohtani has a strong rotation around him to take on the load until he’s completely up to speed.
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