Moments of triumph and comparisons across generations are often caught in unexpected ways in a web of sports narratives. Such is the case with the 2-way player, Shohei Ohtani. Remarkably, he led Japan to victory in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Amidst throwing confetti for his accomplishment and beating team USA, an intriguing comparison has emerged.
Days after Ohtani and his Japanese teammates emerged victorious in the WBC, the echoes of their success reverberated far beyond the diamond. Their win against Team USA, which included the illustrious Mike Trout, Ohtani’s personal journey, drew particular attention from his peers. Let’s find out about his remarkable on-field feats and his humble demeanor.
Is It Michael Jordan or Shohei Ohtani In “Last Dance”?
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Ohtani, for team Japan in the WBC, had a .435 average batting. He also led all players with ten walks. In addition to that, he only allowed five hits and posted an impressive ERA. Lars Nootbaar, a close friend and teammate of Ohtani’s, found himself in awe of Ohtani’s transcendent ability. After Japan’s victory, Nootbaar couldn’t help but notice the similarity between Ohtani and a legend from another realm – Michael Jordan.
The inside scoop on Shohei Ohtani from WBC teammate Lars Nootbaar @Angels | #AngelsLive | @EricaLWeston | @BallySportsMW pic.twitter.com/fAXDt4LU0T
— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) May 3, 2023
He made a reference to the “Last Dance” documentary, which gave a candid glimpse into the unparalleled competitiveness and charisma of Michael Jordan. During his illustrious basketball career, his charisma resonated deeply. Nootbaar’s comparison highlights not only Ohtani’s unparalleled talent but also his approachability and humility.
Amidst Beating Mike Trout and Getting Compared to MJ, A Legend Has Emerged
Michael Jordan’s combination of the same approachability and humility validates this comparison even further. In the words of Nootbaar, “You hear everything and you see the highlights. Seeing him day to day, seeing him take BP, I’ve never seen anything like it. It is nice that he’s easy-going and just a super humble guy. It reminds me of that Last Dance documentary with Michael Jordan when he was smoking a cigar in the hotel room.”
OHTANI STRIKES OUT TROUT TO WIN THE WBC FINAL 😲 #WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/5pudorQph8
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 22, 2023
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Ohtani’s victory in the WBC is due to his ability to excel as both a pitcher and a hitter. This is a feat seldom seen in modern baseball. While the WBC triumph itself is a testament to his skill, the comparison to Jordan adds another layer to his honor.
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The juxtaposition of his victory against Team USA and his close comparison with Michael Jordan shows sportsmanship and dedication. This shared pursuit of greatness across disciplines is a privilege to experience.
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