The atmosphere at Spring Training was unparalleled, marked by a notable camera presence, a large media entourage and an electric buzz that enveloped Camelback Ranch.
All eyes were on Shohei Ohtani, who, after securing a record 10-year, $700 million contract over the winter, made his debut in a Los Angeles Dodgers uniform, raising the crowd's anticipation, and did so with a win over the Chicago White Sox.
The Beginning of Ohtani's Story in LA
With each pitch, the excitement in the air intensified. Ohtani, a two-time unanimous Most Valuable Player of the American Leaguedid not disappoint.
In his first Cactus League game of 2024, he delivered a standout performance, contributing a two-run home run in the fifth inning that played a crucial role in the Dodgers' 9-6 victory over the White Sox on Tuesday.
Reflecting on the moment, Ohtani, speaking through interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, expressed his satisfaction with the significant first step.
The outstanding achievement was not only the stunning home run, but the ability to complete the game without encountering any problems.
Batting second in the Dodgers' lineup, Ohtani, who will hold this position for the entire season, faced his first at-bat since his significant right elbow surgery in September.
The first swing, against a Garrett Crochet straight, resulted in a dramatic moment as Ohtani's helmet came off. Despite deflecting the next pitch, he ended up striking out on a 100 mph straight.
In the second at-bat against right-handed pitcher Justin Anderson, Ohtani swung aggressively, but the result favored the opposing team by triggering a double play grounder started by second baseman Nicky Lopez.
The game took a turn in the last at-bat, where Ohtani, facing Dominic Leone, captivated the fans.
After deflecting the first pitch, he strategically worked the count to 2-1. Despite missing a big swing, Ohtani recovered, launching a spectacular home run to the opposite field, igniting excitement in the crowd.
Reflecting on his performance, Ohtani expressed confidence, noting improvements with each at-bat and a positive trend at the plate. As for the impressive home run, he humorously attributed it to the "Arizona factor."
Andy sends it over the fence.
- Los Dodgers (@LosDodgers) February 28, 2024
Ohtani's Boom In Recent Weeks
Over the past three weeks, Ohtani has instilled optimism in the Dodgers, signaling his potential as the team's designated hitter for the upcoming season opener in Seoul, South Korea, against the San Diego Padres on March 20.
During his first batting practice in the field this spring, Ohtani exhibited remarkable power, connecting for 10 homers in just 21 swings.
Undaunted, he replicated this remarkable feat, hitting another 10 homers in 29 swings during his next batting practice session.
The momentum continued in his live batting practice, where he wowed the crowd with a home run off Dodgers right-handed pitcher J.P. Feyereisen.
Ohtani's steady progress has been a prominent feature, and he even hinted at versatility by wearing an outfielder's glove, though the likelihood of him playing outfield is slim.
Nevertheless, the gesture reflects Ohtani's solid confidence in his health as the season approaches.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts downplayed the possibility of playing outfield, emphasizing the team's focus on using Ohtani as its designated hitter given the breadth of options in the outfield.
Tuesday's game offered a glimpse of the heightened anticipation and attention surrounding the Dodgers for the upcoming season.
Unflappable, Ohtani showcased his prowess in the field, connecting for a home run in his debut game for the Dodgers against formidable competition.
