“He’s a Complete Pitcher”: Shohei Ohtani Praises Yankees’ Ace for Top Honor as 33YO Pitcher Eyes First Cy Young Award

Two pitching maestros are setting the stage on fire. Oh, not for their on-field battles, this time it is for mutual respect and admiration. Baseball fans must be feeling a sense of sadness as the World Series 2023 comes to an end. But, it’s never a dull day in the MLB world. With the Players Choice Awards taking center stage, excitement has been revived. Despite not winning, Shohei Ohtani has made headlines for yet another New York Yankees connection but it doesn’t have to do with free agency.

After one of the worst seasons for the club, fans found themselves finally having something to celebrate as Gerrit Cole won the Outstanding Pitcher of 2023 title. Shotime displayed his sportsmanship to send praise to his competitor, leaving a smile on fans’ faces.

Shohei Ohtani’s Kudos to Gerrit Cole

In his 11-year career, Cole had one of the best seasons this year. Although the team collapsed, the Yankees pitcher had an impressive ERA of 2.63 overall. Having struck out 222 batters with an average of 6 1/3 innings pitched, the numbers have brought the award to the Bronx. It’s no wonder that Ohtani has extended his heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the Yankees pitcher!

Commenting on the Player’s Choice Awards, Shohei expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the Pinstriped ace without a thought of competition and rivalry. “I feel like he’s a complete pitcher. Great all around. But his four-seam stands out to me a lot. Congratulations Gerrit,” said the Japanese sensation.

Additionally, he also shared how he’s afraid to face Cole from the batter’s box. “Since you’re such a great pitcher I do get worried if I can hit or not but I’m always looking forward to it every year.”

Amidst intense competition and rivalry, players like Ohtani never leave a chance to appreciate competitors. But was he part of the celebrations as a winner too?

Who is the American League Outstanding Player?

Ohtani with his incredible hits, gained the American League Outstanding Player for the season 2023. A hit machine on the plate, he had a slash line of .304/ .412/ .654, with most home runs in the AL (44). The Japanese two-way marvel’s tall stack of titles only increases intrigue around his upcoming offseason.

Read More: Despite Future Uncertainties, Shohei Ohtani Fever Takes Over New York

The outstanding player of the Angels is now officially a free agent, and teams will be chasing him for his record-breaking statistics. With the AL MVP award also in conversation, do you think Shohei Ohtani might win it? Tell us in the comments below!

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