The World Baseball Classic might just be more interesting to watch than the regular season sometimes. With friends and foes on the same team, the match-ups have not disappointed so far. Moreover, a lot of countries have exceeded expectations while others like the U.S., have failed to perform to the best of their abilities. Fan-favored Japan has stayed at the forefront. While being struck out in the strangest situation, Shohei Ohtani has yet again emerged to be a true sportsman.
Japan has been dominating the game ever since its entry into the WBC and it’s thanks to the incredible lineup. They’ve faced some strong teams, like the debutante Czech Republic. Few expected the strength of the team and its players, giving Japan a run for its money. Even Ohtani was impressed by the performance of players that are not full-time pro baseballers. Recently, the 28-year-old pitcher paid respect to them yet again.
Shohei Ohtani arrives in Miami wearing a Czech Republic cap
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Japan’s victory over Italy means they’re heading to the semi-finals, which will take place in Miami. The team recently arrived at the airport ahead of the game, and as expected, Ohtani received a lot of attention. Something fans didn’t miss, however, was the 28-year-old’s attire. The Angels superstar isn’t exactly known for his sense of fashion but if a player doesn’t wear their own team’s merch, anyone will notice.
Ohtani 🇯🇵 arrives in 🇺🇲with 🇨🇿 baseball cap !
🇯🇵🤝⚾🇨🇿❤️⚾🇺🇲 https://t.co/qPPN90bT1l— SUZUKI Hideo 鈴木秀生 (@velvyslanecJP) March 17, 2023
It’s even more surprising when their accessories actually represent a rival team! Apparently, the Czech team left a huge impression on the two-way star, because he descended from his flight wearing a cap with the Czech flag. If this doesn’t define true sportsmanship, what does? And this wasn’t the first time Ohtani did something for the other team.
READ MORE – Dreamy Suite Inspired by Japanese Superstars Shohei Ohtani and Yu Darvish Leaves Baseball Fans Flat
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When Baseball Czech posted the clip to Twitter, the Japanese ambassador to the Czech Republic took it upon himself to spread the news. Suzuki Hideo-san retweeted the clip with the caption, “Ohtani 🇯🇵 arrives in 🇺🇲with 🇨🇿 baseball cap !” with flag emojis of all the countries.
What are Japan’s chances of winning the WBC?
Whatever one says about the East Asian country’s baseball skills falls short; they’re just that talented. In addition to Ohtani, their roster includes MLB’s Yu Darvish, and NPB’s Rouki Sasaki as well as Munetaka Murakami. In the past, Japan has been the only team to win multiple WBC championships. And counting 2023, this is their 5th consecutive year making it to the semis.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY – Japanese Two-Way Baseball Star Shohei Ohtani Hits 100th Major League Homer
Their next game is yet to be decided and undoubtedly, it will be against a talented team. But fans are still counting on Japan to take home the final win once again this year.