The Los Angeles Dodgers finally saw Shohei Ohtani swing the bat after the American League 2023 MVP debuted at the spring training against the Chicago White Sox. Dodgers won the game, 9-6.
Ohtani was nothing short of spectacular, although his form is not yet 100 percent.
The $700 million two-way player is meant to only play in the offense this season because of an elbow injury.
Despite a limited appearance, he showed against the White Sox why he owns the largest contract ever in sports history.
Ohtani recorded a home run, two RBIs, and a strikeout in three at-bats, although it showed he worked hard on the home run.
His first time on the mound in a Dodgers uniform was highly anticipated. Fans have their phones out to record the magic that could happen.
However, none came as he finished his first at-bat by getting struck out by the opponent's Garrett Crochet in a 1-2-3 inning.
In his second at-bat, Justin Anderson made him work it. He hit the first pitch by the White Sox pitcher and got the ball to second baseman Nicky Lopez. The baseball team eventually reached first baseman Andrew Vaughn to get Ohtani out. The play tied the game 1-1.
It was at the third at-bat when Ohtani went beast mode after adjusting and showing patience. He hit a two-run homer that reached over the fence against pitcher Dominic Leone. He was able to cut the deficit to 4-3 this time.
Shohei Ohtani homers in his @Dodgers #SpringTraining debut. 💥💥 pic.twitter.com/o6vMUHKUR4
— MLB (@MLB) February 27, 2024
He was done for the day, and fans got their preview of Ohtani's greatness.
Although it was a short appearance, many fans still went wild and had good reason to feel that way.
Ohtani is ready for more roles, but not Dave Roberts
The 28-year-old two-way star is not going to pitch this season. They got his fellow Japanese and marquee signing Yoshinobu Yamamoto for that.
However, it seems like Ohtani is not content with just being the designated hitter. He is ready to be used aside from that.
Speaking to reporters after the Tuesday spring training, he told reporters that he has an outfielder glove in case he might be called up to man that post.
"Something like that could happen," Ohtani said in Japanese. "I think it's important to be ready."
However, the organization is wary of utilizing its priced signing.
Seems like Ohtani is the only one thinking he will become an outfielder this season.
"I don't see that happening," manager Dave Roberts said when asked about Ohtani's outfield hopes.
"We've constructed our roster with the fact that we have plenty of outfield depth, and to have him be our [designated hitter]. Until I hear otherwise, the only focus for me is having him DH."
The Dodgers signed Ohtani from the Los Angeles Angels over the summer for a whopping $700 million, 10-year contract.
The deal made the team the favorites to win the World Series 2024 with +320 odds. The Atlanta Braves come second with +450, while the Houston Astros are third with +700.
The Dodgers reached the Division Series last season only to fall to World Series finalist Arizona Cardinals.
Related article: 3 Dark Horse World Series Contenders That Fans Should Keep an Eye on This 2024 MLB Season
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