Steve Webb
NEW YORK, NY — In a historic postgame interview following the Dodgers’ thrilling 7-6 win over the Yankees to clinch the 2024 World Series, Shohei Ohtani reflected on a dream come true. Speaking mostly in Japanese, Ohtani shared his profound gratitude for achieving his long-held goal of winning a World Series in Major League Baseball, an aspiration he’s chased since joining the MLB from Japan. “It’s an honor to be part of this season with the Dodgers,” he said, emphasizing how meaningful it was to win a championship in his first year with the team.
The journey to this pinnacle wasn’t without its challenges. When asked about the season’s early turbulence, particularly the difficult times in spring training while dealing with various adjustments and the high expectations of joining a powerhouse like the Dodgers, Ohtani was candid. He credited the strength of the Dodgers organization and the camaraderie among his teammates as crucial to overcoming those early-season challenges. “The team’s strength allowed us to push through the regular season, and that same resilience brought us success in the postseason,” he explained, underscoring the collective effort that defined their journey.
Another highlight of Ohtani’s debut season with the Dodgers was his role as a leadoff hitter—a role he filled despite the presence of star players like Mookie Betts, who holds the franchise record for leadoff home runs, and first baseman Freddie Freeman. Reflecting on playing alongside Betts and Freeman, Ohtani expressed admiration for their professionalism and skill, which he said pushed him to elevate his own game. “Their professionalism really stands out,” he noted, adding that the depth and quality of the Dodgers’ lineup allowed him to grow, not just in skill but also in his approach to the game.
The mood lightened when a reporter asked Ohtani to compare the postgame celebrations in Japan and the United States, particularly the exuberant beer showers common in MLB. Laughing, Ohtani shared that the celebrations in Japan, even for big wins, tend to be more reserved. However, he admitted he enjoyed the more spirited American celebration that erupted after the Dodgers’ victory, describing it as an unforgettable experience he had always wanted to be part of.
Ohtani also recounted the emotions of the game itself, especially as the Dodgers faced an early five-run deficit. He praised his teammates’ resilience and patience, which led to a pivotal five-run inning. “Our lineup did a great job of battling and seeing pitches,” he explained, crediting the team’s discipline at the plate, as well as their ability to capitalize on Yankees’ errors, which helped them claw back into the game.
Overall, Ohtani’s postgame reflections captured both the joy of the Dodgers’ World Series triumph and the personal fulfillment he felt as a player who had overcome numerous obstacles to reach the top of the baseball world. For Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts everywhere, Ohtani’s sentiments summed up the significance of the season—one marked by hard work, resilience, and a shared pursuit of excellence. As he returns to the field next season, his achievements with the Dodgers will surely inspire fans, and his journey will continue to be one of the most compelling stories in baseball.
