At the recent MVP award dinner, Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation who has redefined the possibilities of modern baseball, took a moment to express his deep gratitude to both the Los Angeles Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers organizations. In a heartfelt speech, Ohtani thanked both teams “for believing in me” and acknowledged the crucial roles they played in his journey to becoming one of the sport’s most electrifying and accomplished players.
Ohtani’s career in Major League Baseball (MLB) has been nothing short of historic. After making the leap from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), the versatile talent has captivated fans and critics alike with his unparalleled ability to both pitch and hit at an elite level. However, Ohtani’s road to MLB stardom wasn’t without its challenges. When he made the decision to come to the United States in 2017, his future was far from certain, and the baseball world was unsure how he would fare against the best pitchers and hitters in the world.
The Angels were the team that took the risk, signing Ohtani to a contract that would allow him to fulfill his unique dream of being both a starting pitcher and a designated hitter. In his speech, Ohtani reflected on how the Angels “took a chance” on him when other organizations were less willing to embrace the idea of a two-way player. His gratitude towards the Angels was evident as he spoke about the trust the organization showed in his abilities, which helped him evolve into the player he is today.
“The Angels gave me the platform to be myself,” Ohtani said during his speech. “From day one, they believed in me, and I can never thank them enough for that. Without their support, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Ohtani also took time to recognize the Dodgers, the team that was often considered a key contender in the race for his services as a free agent. While he ultimately chose the Angels, Ohtani admitted that the Dodgers’ pursuit of him made a lasting impression. “The Dodgers are a first-class organization,” Ohtani said. “Their commitment to winning, their professionalism, and their culture are top-tier. I appreciate everything they did during the recruitment process.”
In expressing thanks to both teams, Ohtani reflected on the journey that has made him one of the most dominant and marketable athletes in baseball. His unique position as both a pitcher and hitter has defied convention, and with each season, Ohtani continues to deliver historic performances that have elevated the game.
This year, Ohtani captured his second MVP award in recognition of another record-breaking season, during which he finished with a batting average well above .300, hit over 40 home runs, and was an ace on the mound with a sub-3.00 ERA. His continued dominance only adds to the legacy of a player who has transcended the sport, inspiring future generations of baseball players.
In his closing remarks, Ohtani emphasized how grateful he is to have had the opportunity to live out his dream in the Major Leagues. “I never could have imagined this moment when I first came over here, but I’m thankful to both the Angels and the Dodgers for making it all possible,” he said.
Shohei Ohtani’s speech was a reminder of the power of opportunity and belief, and how the support of those who take chances on a player can lead to something truly extraordinary.
