The 2023 World Baseball Classic was a truly exciting affair. Thousands of fans attended the games live and millions watched the global baseball tournament on TV. New York Mets’ owner Steve Cohen was one of the thousands to watch a live game. The $17.5 billion businessman was at the Tokyo Dome to watch Japan play Italy live. 

This led to intense speculation as to why he was at the tournament, even raising a few eyebrows. Most recently, a respected MLB insider has provided more context regarding Cohen’s WBC appearance.

MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal explains the Steve Cohen World Baseball Classic appearance

Steve Cohen attended Japan’s Quarterfinal bout against Italy at the World Baseball Classic last month. This appearance drew a lot of attention, with many wondering the reason for Cohen’s appearance. Some even speculated that it was a trip to recruit Shohei Ohtani. But most recently, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal gave some clarity on the New York Mets owner’s WBC appearance. Rosenthal said that Cohen was in Japan for business and happened to be there when Ohtani was set to pitch. 

During an episode of the Foul Territory Podcast, Rosenthal said, “Steve Cohen was at the Tokyo Dome for Ohtani’s start against Italy. He pitched well that day. He pitches well seemingly every day.” He then explained Cohen’s reason for the trip, saying, “So he said, that he was there for business reasons. He had a meeting and also took 2 of his daughters there. He kind of combined the business and pleasure elements. And he just happened to be there when Ohtani was pitching, and he figured he’d go to the game.” 

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This is a huge insight into the actual reasoning behind Cohen’s appearance at the WBC game. The speculations surrounding the Mets and Ohtani have been strong ever since then. 

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Following the 2023 MLB season, Shohei Ohtani is going to be a free agent. There have been rumors, speculations, and many predictions regarding which team he will sign with. Experts put the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and the New York Yankees as the early favorites. But it is possible that this will change as the season progresses. 

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What do you think of the reasoning that Ken Rosenthal gave for Steve Cohen’s WBC appearance? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.