The Los Angeles Dodgers formally introduced Shohei Ohtani as the newest member of the club during a highly-attended press conference on Thursday in the center field plaza at Dodger Stadium.
It marked Ohtani’s first public comments and appearances since signing with the Dodgers and drew worldwide attention, specifically in Japan, where it began at 8 a.m. with a 3 p.m. PT start.
The press conference was hosted by Dodgers play-by-play broadcaster Joe Davis and featured comments from president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and a statement from Ohtani before he began taking questions.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce the newest member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani,” Friedman wrapped up his comments with and was followed by Ohtani putting on a Dodgers cap and jersey for the first time, showing off his No. 17 in Dodger Blue.
“First of all, I would like to thank the Los Angeles Dodgers organization for giving me the opportunity to play here and believing in me as a baseball player,” Ohtani said through interpreter Ippei Mizuhara.
“And especially these five guys I’m about to mention. It starts with Mark Walter, Andrew Friedman, Stan Kasten, Brandon Gomes and Dave Roberts. These five were very critical throughout the whole process.”
Ohtani also thanked the Los Angeles Angels organization, adding he’ll “never forget all the memories he has” of his time there.
He concluded his statement by thanking his agent, Nez Balelo, along with everyone in Japan who has been rooting for him and supporting him along his journey.
Shohei Ohtani press conference highlights
Ohtani mentions commitment to winning
Ohtani made note that the Dodgers stressed to him they feel their last 10 seasons have been failures in their eyes because they have fallen short of the World Series so often, which helped sell the two-way star on joining the team.
“I do prioritize winning,” Ohtani said through Mizuhara. “That was on the top of my list and that will probably never change. That’s one of the reasons why I chose this team.”
Ohtani reveals name of his dog
Ohtani finally revealed his dog’s name is Dekopin, which is a Japanese term. He also added the Americanized named is Decoy.
Friedman highlights Ohtani’s passion for the game
The Dodgers’ energy during important games has been questioned, but Friedman pointed out Ohtani is built to play in the big moments and has already done well there.
“You could see his ability to rise to the occasion, cherish the most intense moments and flourish on that stage,” Friedman said about Ohtani regarding World Baseball Classic play.
Ohtani shares his excitement to join the Dodgers
“I can’t wait to join the Dodgers,” he said through his interpreter. “They share the same passion as me, and have a vision and history all about winning.”
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