MLB Players Explain Why Shohei Ohtani Is On A Different Level

Summary

This video highlights Shohei Ohtani's unprecedented talent as a two-way player in Major League Baseball, drawing comparisons to legends like Babe Ruth. It chronicles Ohtani's journey from Japan to the MLB, showcasing his remarkable achievements as both a pitcher and a hitter. Despite facing injuries, he has consistently dominated the game, winning multiple MVP awards and setting records. MLB legends express their awe at his unique ability to excel in both roles, making a compelling case for Ohtani as the greatest baseball player of all time.

Takeaways

• 😀 Shohei Ohtani is often compared to Babe Ruth, with many asserting he would excel in a head-to-head matchup.
• 😀 Ohtani made headlines in 2012 by signing with a Japanese team as a two-way player, a rarity in baseball.
• 😀 He entered the MLB via the posting system, where the Angels ultimately won a bidding war to sign him.
• 😀 In his rookie season, Ohtani became the first player in nearly a century to shine as both a pitcher and hitter.
• 😀 Despite injuries, he recorded impressive stats, including a 3.31 ERA and 22 home runs in his debut season.
• 😀 After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Ohtani returned in 2021, showcasing his power with 46 home runs and 26 stolen bases.
• 😀 In 2021, he was named the American League MVP, highlighting his unique ability to excel as both a pitcher and a hitter.
• 😀 Ohtani continued to dominate in subsequent seasons, earning accolades including a second AL MVP award in 2023.
• 😀 His 2024 season featured remarkable statistics, including a 95.3 mph average exit velocity and a 58.4% hard-hit rate.
• 😀 MLB legends and current players consistently express admiration for Ohtani's unprecedented skill set and performance.

Q & A

What unique decision did Shohei Ohtani make when signing with a team in Japan?

Ohtani wanted to be a two-way player, excelling as both a pitcher and a hitter.

Why was Ohtani's entry into MLB so highly anticipated?

Ohtani had already shown significant talent in Japan, leading many to wonder how his skills would translate to the MLB.

What notable achievement did Ohtani accomplish in his rookie season?

He became the first player in nearly a hundred years to excel as both a pitcher and a hitter, winning the American League Rookie of the Year title.

How did Ohtani perform on the mound during his rookie season?

He posted a 3.31 ERA and struck out 63 batters in just over 51 innings, despite an elbow injury.

What were Ohtani's hitting statistics during his rookie year?

He hit 22 home runs and had a batting average of .285.

How did Ohtani's 2021 season further solidify his reputation?

He hit 46 home runs and had a 3.18 ERA, becoming the first player since 1931 to excel as both a hitter and a pitcher in the same season.

What accolades did Ohtani receive by the end of the 2021 season?

He was named the American League MVP, MLB Player of the Year, and received a 'Historic Achievement' award from the MLB Commissioner.

What were Ohtani's achievements in the 2022 season?

He had a combined WAR of 9.2, showcasing his all-around dominance.

How did Ohtani perform in the 2023 season?

He batted .304 with 44 home runs and 95 RBIs, winning his second A.L. MVP award.

What makes Ohtani's dual-threat capability so remarkable?

Ohtani consistently excels as both a pitcher and a hitter, a feat that very few players, including Babe Ruth, have managed over a sustained period.