Shohei Ohtani: The Most Talented Yet Underrated Star in MLB?
Shohei Ohtani continues to dominate Major League Baseball with his remarkable skills, proving time and again why he is one of the sport’s greatest players. Despite his undeniable talent, a bold statement from Andrew Friedman, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, has sparked discussion. His claim has led many to question whether Ohtani truly receives the recognition he deserves.
A Stellar 2024 Season
Ohtani’s performance in the 2024 season with the Dodgers has been nothing short of extraordinary. He recorded 54 home runs, 130 RBIs, and maintained a .310 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage (OBP), and a 1.036 on-base plus slugging (OPS) in 636 at-bats (AB). These statistics firmly establish him as one of the most dominant players in the league.
Yet, despite these numbers, some believe he is still underappreciated. This sentiment was echoed by Dodgers’ executive Matthew Moreno, who shared Friedman’s thoughts on social media. According to Friedman:
> “I think he is the most talented player who’s ever played this game. Second, I think, in some weird way, he’s underrated. I still think he is underappreciated.”
The Debate on Ohtani’s Recognition
Ohtani’s impact on the sport is undeniable. His ability to excel as both a pitcher and hitter is a rarity in MLB history. Many consider his achievements unprecedented, and his two-way play sets him apart from any other current player. However, there is a belief that his contributions are not fully recognized.
One possible reason for this is the nature of Major League Baseball itself. Unlike the NBA and NFL, which have a more national and global reach, MLB is often considered a regional sport. This could explain why Ohtani does not receive as much mainstream media attention as top football or basketball players.
Another factor may be the focus on his batting over his pitching. While Ohtani’s offensive skills are widely praised, his pitching abilities sometimes take a backseat in discussions. If he were solely a position player, some believe he would be a Gold Glove candidate, further showcasing his all-around abilities.
Ohtani’s Recent Heroics on the Field
Ohtani once again demonstrated his exceptional talent during a recent exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants. Under the bright stadium lights, he delivered a powerful two-home-run performance in the third inning, leading the Dodgers to a 5-1 victory. The crowd erupted in excitement, reaffirming his status as one of the most thrilling players to watch.
Following the game, Ohtani expressed his joy at playing in front of his home country’s fans, saying:
> “With so many fans in the stands, it really felt like I’ve come back home after a long time.”
He emphasized his dedication to the game and his commitment to making a difference for the Dodgers.
Anticipation for the Tokyo Series
The Dodgers are preparing for the upcoming Tokyo Series opener against the Chicago Cubs, and Ohtani’s presence in Japan is electrifying the atmosphere. Fans in his home country are eager to see him represent the Dodgers on their soil, and expectations are high for his performance.
The Larger Conversation: Is Ohtani Underrated?
The discussion surrounding Ohtani’s recognition continues. Some argue that he is already a global superstar and receives plenty of attention, while others believe his contributions, especially as a two-way player, are still not fully appreciated.
Regardless of the debate, one thing remains clear—Shohei Ohtani is a generational talent whose impact on baseball is historic. Whether or not he is underrated, his ability to shine as both a pitcher and a hitter ensures that he will be remembered as one of the game’s greatest players.