Shohei Ohtani came into the 2024 season with an elbow injury. And he left with an injury too! The team revealed that Shohei had suffered a shoulder injury after the World Series, and it sent shockwaves. The Dodgers confirmed on November 5th that Ohtani had undergone surgery to repair the torn labrum in his left shoulder, and it was a successful surgery. It occurred when he was trying to steal second base during Game 2 of the World Series against the New York Yankees.
Even after that event, Shohei surprisingly went on to play Game 3. Dave Roberts, when asked about Shohei’s stature to perform, said Ohtani’s performance will not be compromised. Ohtani knew it was a crucial moment, and he even sent a text message to his teammates to boost their morale. “Nice game, guys. Last time, Bellinger’s shoulder was dislocated. This time, my shoulder was dislocated. This is a good sign for a world champion.” Bellinger had famously played through his injuries in 2020, and that’s what Ohtani was highlighting.
Right now another leak of behind-the-scenes conversations in the Dodgers chat room has emerged. In the screenshot of the conversation, after Ohtani confirmed his injury, Freddie Freeman and the rest of the team gave their support. Freeman said, “Let’s go, Sho!.” It’s a powerful statement because it’s not easy to accept the reality—your star player is injured and might not perform at his best. But the team showed their support and were determined to win no matter what.
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This is the Dodgers chat room when Ohtani said his shoulder was dislocated and he said they’re still going to be World Series champions pic.twitter.com/iKk8uo0lkT
— shobae 大谷翔平 ¹⁷ Ohtani Shohei ¹⁷ 🐶 (@shoheisaveus) December 29, 2024
Meanwhile, Roberts did assure Shohei Ohtani that his performance wouldn’t take a hit, but it sure did. He was struggling to swing and often wincing at his at-bats. Plus, his performance dipped, and he finished the series with a 2-for-19 record, without a home run or an RBI. But even after this, the LA Dodgers managed to clinch that World Series title. That’s what a strong lineup does: even when the face of the franchise takes a back seat, the others hold the pillars.
It was on October 26th during Game 2 that Ohtani partially dislocated his non-throwing shoulder. After being pulled from the game, he surprisingly returned to play in Game 3 to play against NY Yankees. With manager Dave Roberts assuring that Ohtani’s ability to perform would not be “compromised.” Ohtani was supposed to be back in his two-way player mode in 2025. It remains to be seen if he will be able to in the coming season.
Shohei Ohtani ticks another key milestone in his list
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Shohei Ohtani has had a rollercoaster year and completed many of the items he had on his detailed life wishlist that’s gone viral. A little late, but he did manage to get married and win a World Series. But if there is one thing about Shohei, it’s that—always expect more. So now, before the year comes to a close, he delivered precious news. He is going to be a dad!
Yes, it was mentioned in Shohei’s list that he wants to be a dad at 28. Ohtani is 30, but finally now going to be a dad. He shared on his Instagram this lovely news, with a picture featuring a little onesie, along with a sonogram. In the post, Ohtani wrote, “Can’t wait for the little rookie to join our family soon.” And in the post was also Decoy, and it’s no surprise given that he has been with Ohtani in all his key moments. Whether it was when he was announced as MVP or during the winning parade.
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The news of the baby coming is here less than a year after the LA Dodger star revealed that Mamiko Tanaka and he were married. Even that was a huge surprise for the fans. Ohtani sure does know how to keep things under wraps. Not much is known about the couple’s private affair, but they are seen at events lately. They even went to an NBA game recently. Ohtani, although in the post, didn’t mention when the couple expects the little one to come.
Well, this year has been a blessing with a little pain for the Dodger star. Next year is coming, and Ohtani has so much to look forward to. How are you guys liking their bullpen? Let us know!
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