Dodgers News: Ohtani leads the pack in first half jersey sales

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 21: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on prior to the game between the Los Angeles Angels and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Friday, June 21, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Owens/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA — The latest MLB jersey sales figures for the first half of the 2024 season reveal that Shohei Ohtani remains the most popular player, now donning a Los Angeles Dodgers jersey. Ohtani, who continues to excel on the field, is a strong contender for the National League MVP and leads jersey sales not only in the United States but also in Japan and worldwide. This marks the first time a Japanese-born player has topped the sales charts since the rankings began in 2010.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have the most players in the top 20 jersey sales, with Ohtani (No. 1), Mookie Betts (No. 4), and Freddie Freeman (No. 20) all making the list. This dominance highlights the team’s strong fanbase and the popularity of its star players. Betts, known for his consistent performance and charismatic presence, and Freeman, a key player with a strong following, contribute significantly to the Dodgers’ presence in the rankings.

With Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts in the lineup, there was plenty to smile in the first half (Photo: Harry How/Getty Images)

Other notable players in the top 20 include Bryce Harper of the Phillies (No. 2) and Aaron Judge of the Yankees (No. 3), who are leading vote-getters for the All-Star Game. Rising stars like Elly De La Cruz of the Reds (No. 15) and Adley Rutschman of the Orioles (No. 16) also feature prominently, reflecting a diverse mix of ages and international backgrounds among the top sellers.

Surely, Ohtani changing teams had a lot to do with the surge in jersey sales, but it is also a testament to his worldwide appeal. The Dodgers have the most popular baseball player on the planet. Whether or not that will translate to a World Series title remains to be seen.

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Written by Steve Webb

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