It's officially official. Shohei Ohtani is now a member of the LA Dodgers.
After weeks of speculation and false reporting, the Dodgers landed the generational talent to the tune of 10 years and $700 million — the richest deal in North American sports history.
On December 14, Ohtani donned the iconic white and blue Dodgers colors for the first time at his introductory press conference in Los Angeles. Ever gracious, the generational talent also made an effort to thank the Angels. "It was a fun ride, great ride, for the last six years. I'd like to thank everyone in the organization. I'll never forget all the memories I had."
While Ohtani talked about his decision to join the Dodgers, team president Andrew Friedman also cited the team's long history of Japanese players including the likes of Hideo Nomo, Hiroki Kuroda and Kenta Maeda. Now its Ohtani's turn as he continues his ascent to becoming an all-time MLB legend.
Ohtani's arrival in LA made the Dodgers instant World Series favorites and he'll have the eyes of the sporting world firmly locked in on Chavez Ravine when the team takes the field in 2024.
Ohtani arrival in Major League Baseball from Japan in 2018, brought plenty of curiosity. Many questioned whether or not he would live up to the hype bestowed on him before playing a single game in America. Would he be an effective hitter against MLB pitching? Would he be an effective pitcher against MLB hitting? His inaugural season was solid with 22 home runs and a .285/.361/.564 slash line. An injury to his elbow after 10 starts and wound up requiring Tommy John surgery.
In 2021, a finally healthy Ohtani answered all the questions and showed the world he was the best player on the planet. He posted a 3.18 ERA in 130.1 innings and crushed 46 home runs earning the 2021 AL MVP. In 2022, finished second in MVP voting behind record-breaking Aaron Judge.
In 2023, he solidified himself as the game's best player, starting the year winning the World Baseball Classic and carrying that momentum into the 2023 season where he slashed .304/.412/.654 with 44 homers. He did his thing on the mound again posting a 3.14 ERA in 132 innings winning his second AL MVP.
After dominating the American League, it's time for Ohtani to wreck the National League.
Baseball fans haven't been able to hold back the excitement of Ohtani's arrival in LA with many waiting patiently to purchase the two-time MVP's new jersey.
Well, look no further as Fanatics has you covered with global shipping.
For a limited time, you could save up to 30% off with the promo code "jolly" at checkout on select items. Order today and get your items by Christmas.
Ohtani's home white Dodgers jersey is available in men's and women's sizes.
Check them out here starting at $134.99.
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