At the start of his baseball career itself, Shohei Ohtani [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/shohei-ohtani/] had made up his mind about playing in North America’s Major League Baseball. However, his wish to play in MLB never equated to Ohtani leaving his homeland standing. And the recently concluded World Baseball Classic is emblematic of that fact. But that’s not all the two-way wonder did for Japan. Ohtani made sure to look ahead, even if it was at the cost of $10,000. Led by Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese baseball team walked past every other country in the World Baseball Classic. The Japanese wonder boy also conquered past his Angels teammate Mike Trout [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/mike-trout/] in the ultimate deciding innings of the finale. Baseman Lars Nootbaar [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lars-nootbaar/], who was batting leadoff in the gold medal match, batted a run in during the game. SHOHEI OHTANI BID ADIEU TO A PRIZED POSSESSION TO MAKE LARS NOOTBAAR MAKE A PROMISE Lars Nootbaar made his MLB debut in 2021 with the St. Louis Cardinals. Born in California, the 25-year-old became the first player not born in Japan to represent their national baseball team [https://www.essentiallysports.com/mlb-baseball-news-why-is-american-born-lars-nootbaar-playing-alongside-shohei-ohtani-for-japan-in-the-2023-world-baseball-classic/]. And Shohei Ohtani immediately caught on to his talent and made a move to secure him for the next edition of the WBC. The American League MVP from 2021 handed over his Seiko watch worth $10,000 to the Cardinals baseman while asking him to commit to representing Japan in 2026. An Ohtani fan account confirmed this news on Twitter, and said, “The watch Ohtani gave to Nootbaar is $10,000 USD it’s Grand Seiko and Shohei’s been a model for Seiko since 2016.” Ahead of World Baseball Classic 2023 Semifinal Showdown [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/shohei-ohtani/] A move like this not only establishes Ohtani’s bond with the Cardinals youngster but also his commitment to his homeland to part with such a prized possession. Shohei Ohtani [https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1328589781.jpg]DENVER, COLORADO – JULY 13: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels pitches in the first inning during the 91st MLB All-Star Game at Coors Field on July 13, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) Will Lars Nootbaar live up to the promise he made to Shohei Ohtani? Or will he let the Japanese wonder boy down? What do you think? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! WATCH THIS STORY – Japanese Two-Way Baseball Star Shohei Ohtani Hits 100th Major League Homer [https://www.essentiallysports.com/stories/us-sports-mlb-news-japanese-two-way-baseball-star-shohei-ohtani-hits-100th-major-league-homer/] 

Japan's WBC Star Shohei Ohtani recently parted with an opulent $10,000
possession to ensure 25-year-old Lars Nootbaar's 2026 WBC presence.

Mohsin Baldiwala is an MLB author for EssentiallySports. He is pursuing his BBA
degree, specializing in Communications & Media with a Public Policy minor. Along
with his keen interest in politics and questions about society, he has written
multiple research papers about a variety of topics, ranging from stand-up comedy
to the Indian Education System. Carrying his love for NYC-based sitcoms, his
favorite team is the Yankees, which is largely influenced by their splendid past
and the history of New York City. In his spare time, Mohsin watches and plays
cricket as well.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Mohsin.png

Mohsin Baldiwala

blockquote

script

strong

figcaption

figure

Shohei Ohtani Parts With $10,000 Possession to Ensure Fellow Japanese Hero Joins
Him World Baseball Classic 2026

MLB News: Alex Bregman’s Asking Price Races Past $300M as Astros’ Owner Makes a
Surprising Declaration About Star’s Future

Shohei Ohtani Immortalizes His Historic 2024 Season By Signing Topps’ Ultra Rare
1-of-1 “50/50 Club” Card Collection

Scott Boras’ $330M Client’s Deep Juan Soto Connection Gives a Fresh Twist to
Star’s Sweepstakes

MLB Rumors: Astros’ Alex Bregman Pursuit Gets Another Blow With an Aggressive AL
East Rival Joining the Fray

“Just Poor Sportsmanship”: Roki Sasaki’s Agent Brutally Calls Out Executives for
Saying He Has a Backdoor Deal With Dodgers

Angels

Angels Archives

Angels Archives - EssentiallySports

EssentiallySports

https://www.staging.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/es_circle_black_logo.png

Baseball

title

Japan's WBC Star Shohei Ohtani recently parted with an opulent $10,000 possession to ensure 25-year-old Lars Nootbaar's 2026 WBC presence.

description

link

Shohei Ohtani Parts With $10,000 Possession to Ensure Fellow Japanese Hero Joins Him World Baseball Classic 2026 - EssentiallySports

https://www.essentiallysports.com/mlb-baseball-news-shohei-ohtani-parts-with-ten-thousand-possession-to-ensure-fellow-japanese-hero-joins-him-world-baseball-classic-2026/

https://www.facebook.com/essentiallysports

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/WhatsApp-Image-2023-03-26-at-3.13.42-PM.jpeg

twitter:card

twitter:creator

twitter:site

twitter:label1

twitter:data1

Lars Nootbaar

Lars Nootbaar Archives

Lars Nootbaar Archives - EssentiallySports

Mike Trout

Mike Trout: 2024 Net Worth, Stats, Salary, Wife and More Baseball in the 2010s would be incomplete without the story of Mike Trout. In a decade where the player seemed to dominate most individual stat records, one would be remiss to mention that Trout&#8217;s contribution to baseball in the 2010s. Despite some great hitting and offensive outputs that Trout has managed to put together, the LA Angels could not put together a coherent post-season run and have on occasion underperformed too. Trout, however, remains a fan favorite and a media darling amid his other-worldly output. A rare combination in today&#8217;s game. Who is Mike Trout? All to know about 11x all-star Mike Trout is a professional baseball center fielder for the Los Angeles Angels in the Major League baseball. Being an 11-time MLB All-Star, three-time American League (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) and nine-time Silver Slugger Awardee, Trout has rose to superstar status in his 13 years with the team. Standing alongside once-in-a-generation talents like Shohei Ohtani, Mike is often regarded as the best player of his generation, and one of the greatest baseball players of all time.Â  An Insight into Mike Troutâ€™s Early Life On August 7, 1991, Mike Trout was born to Jeff and Debbie (nÃ©e Busonick) Trout in Vineland, New Jersey. He grew up in nearby Millville, New Jersey in a family of five with two older siblings, sister Teal and brother Tyler. Baseball ran in the blood of Trouts family with his father getting drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 1983 as a second baseman. Jeff could only play the minor league for four years due to his career-ending injury. Attending Millville Senior High School in Millville, New Jersey, young Trout played two sports simultaneously: baseball and basketball. The then-17-year-old grew as a diehard fan of Philadelphia Phillies to an extent that he attended their World Series parade in 2008.Â  Being a 2009 graduate, Mike began playing baseball in a division of the Babe Ruth League named Cal Ripken Baseball. Wearing #2 owing to his childhood idol, the New York Yankees 15th captain, Derek Jeter, the youth baseball player played shortstop. Hitting 18 homers in his junior year, Trout went on to make a New Jersey high school record, with Millville awarding his jersey to team captain ever since. After that, Trout played travel ball with one of the premier travel programs in the Northeast named Tri-State Arsenal. In the summer before his senior year, Trout attended the Area Code Games in southern California, playing against some of the best players in the country. All this led to Angels scout Greg Morhardt, who shared the field with Troutâ€™s father, claiming that â€œMike was the fastest and strongest 17-year-old he had ever seenâ€. How long has Mike Trout been married? Know about his Wife and Children Mike Trout has been married to Jessica Cox, his school sweetheart, for over 6 years now. Jessica and Mike graduated together from the Millville Senior High School. After that, she attended Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania, graduating with a bachelor&#8217;s degree in elementary education. Meanwhile, she also played collegiate field hockey for the LVC Dutchmen and was a member of the National Honor Society. Moreover, post her graduation, she started working as a middle school teacher in Cape May County, New Jersey. Amidst all of this, the love was brewing. The moment teenage-trout saw Jessica in a Spanish class, it instantly clicked for him that â€œshe is the oneâ€. Shortly after, the two started dating. Having married in 2017, the wife has stood beside the baseball player from his draft pick days to throughout his career to date. Acknowledging the support he received from his wife, Mike Trout wrote in an Instagram post, â€œWith you, life is better every single dayâ€. &#8220;I don&#8217;t know where I would be without you by my side. Your strength and courage as a mother grows our love&#8230; I love you, Jess,&#8221; further wrote Trout.Â  After three years of marriage, the couple welcomed their first child, Beckham Aaron Trout, on July 30, 2020. Being the only child to the baseball player, Beckhamâ€™s middle name came from his late uncle, Aaron Cox, who himself was a baseball player.Â  What is Mike Troutâ€™s Net Worth 2024Â  Per Celebrity Net Worth, Mike Trout, one of the greatest players of all time, has a net worth of $140 million. Four years ago, the player signed a 12-year $426.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, making him the highest-paid player in baseball history.Â  He received a whopping $20 million as a signing bonus. As of 2024, Trout is projected to earn an annual average money, $35.8 million, which is the highest salary ever in professional sports. A seasoned professional: A go through Mike Troutâ€™s Career Timeline Mike Trout has been an athletic presence since high school. Capturing several records in his collegiate and high school baseball career, Trout was picked at #25 by the LA Angels in the 2009 draft when he was just 17. In the same year, Trout commenced his baseball career out of high school, playing for the rookie-level Arizona Leagueâ€™s (AZL) team, the Arizona Angels. Ahead of 2010 season, Trout was named the Angels&#8217; third-best prospect along with the 85th-best in all of baseball by Baseball America. Playing for the Cedar Rapids in 82 games, Trout was selected to play for the All-Star Future Games. After which, he was promoted to the Class A-Advanced California League team the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes.  Before the 2011 season, ESPNâ€™s Keith Law ranked Mike Trout number one in his Top 100 Prospects List. Trout started the 2011 season with the Class AA Texas Leagueâ€™s Arkansas Travelers, hitting .324 with nine home runs, 27 RBIs, and 28 stolen bases in his first 75 games. On July 8, 2011, the Angels promoted Mike Trout to the major leagues. The slugger batted .220, along with on-base percentage of .281 and a slugging percentage .390, in the 40 games of his rookie season. In 2012, Trout hit 20 home runs and stole 40 bases in a season, becoming the youngest player to do so in a season. The same year saw him becoming the only player in major league baseball history to hit 30 home runs, steal 45 bases, and score 125 runs in a single season. Despite playing in 139 games in 2012 season, Trout led the Angels in batting average, runs scored, hits (182), triples, stolen bases, total bases (315), base on balls, batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and on-base plus slugging. Beginning the 2013 season as left fielder, Trout hit his first career grand slam. However, soon after, he was moved back to center field. In the mid season, he regained his rookie-form. Per the Baseball Reference, Trout finished the season with the highest WAR, standing at 9.2. After signing a six-year, $144.5 million extension with the Angels, Mike Trout saw his 2014 season blooming with his first career walk-off home run, AL-leading 111 RBIs, MLB-leading 115 runs scored and more. Not only this, in 2014, Mike Trout became the sixth player in major league baseball history to have won regular-season MVP and the All-Star Game MVP in a single season.Â  In 2015, at just 23 years and 253 days of age, Trout reached a milestone of becoming the youngest player in MLB history to hit 100 homers and steal 100 bases. The same year marked Mikeâ€™s second All-Star Game MVP Award, becoming the first player to have won it consecutively. Finishing the season with 41 home runs and 90 RBIs, he led all American League players in slugging percentage and OPS. The 2016 season saw the Anglesâ€™ superstar win his second AL MVP award, getting named the â€œbaseball best [active] playerâ€ by the Sporting News. By the end of the season, Trout stood at 12th among the active position players in Total WAR in just 5 full seasons. In May 2017, Trout missed 39 games owing to his thumb surgery. However, post his return from the disabled list, he doubled down the third-base line for his 1,000th career hit. Although Trout played a career low 114 games in the 2017 season, he led the team in runs (92), home runs (33), stolen bases (22), walks (94), and in batting average (.306). Ahead of the 2018 season, Mike Trout was named the #1 baseball player by Sports Illustrated. He hit well all season, averaging .312 (4th best) and getting on base at a .460 clip (best in the league). He hit for power too, slugging .628 (3rd best) and hitting 39 home runs (4th most). He also scored 101 runs (9th most) and stole 24 bases (9th most). In March 2019, Trout signed a 12-year, $426 million contract with the Angels. At the time it was the most expensive contract in North American Sports history. Through the season Trout entered the 200 home run, 200 stolen base club, finishing the season with a career-high 45 homers and leading the American League in on-base percentage and slugging percentage. Despite the shortened season in 2020, Trout impressed with a .281 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage, and a .603 slugging percentage. He tied for 4th in the AL with 17 home runs and ranked 6th with 46 RBIs. Trout was into the 2021 season, hitting .333/.466/.624 with 8 home runs when he met an injury which put him out for the rest of the season. During the following season, Trout saw another injury stint which allowed him to bat .283/.369/.630 with 40 home runs and 80 RBIs spanning 119 games. The 2023 season saw Mike garner at least 300 career doubles, 300 career home-runs and 200 stolen bases in a season where he is 31 years of age. In early July, Trout fractured his left hamate bone, which ended his season prematurely.Â  How many contracts Mike Trout had in his career Throughout his career to date, Mike Trout has remained consistent to the Los Angeles Angels. However, he has had a number of contract renewals and extensions with the team. Here are the details of the same from 2012 to 2030:  Year Contract Average Salary  2019-2030 $426,500,000 $35,541,667  2015-2020 $144,500,000 $24,083,333  2014-2014Â  $1,000,000 $1,000,000  2013-2013 $510,000 $510,000  2012-2012 $482,500 $482,500  Mike Troutâ€™s Partnerships and Endorsements A year after getting promoted to the major leagues, the Los Angeles star has had a partnership with several brands as endorsements deals. Endorsing products such as J &amp; J Snack Foods&#8217; SuperPretzel and Bodyarmor&#8217;s SuperDrink, Mike Trout has been sponsored by brands including Subway and Land Rover.Â  Furthermore, in 2014, Trout entered into a partnership with Nike, collaborating on a line of shoes bearing his name. During the same year, he inked an agreement with Topps, granting the company exclusive rights to distribute his autographed baseball cards. This arrangement saw renewals in 2016 and once more in 2021. His business acumen: Learn more about Mike Troutâ€™s InvestmentsÂ  Mike Trout business acumen comprises three major investments. Back in 2012, he invested in a renowned sports beverage company named Bodyarmor SuperDrink. The investment proved to be fruitful with the company flourishing over the years. While this marks his first investment since he debuted, the information regarding his second investment remains unavailable. Fast forward to 2023, Mike Trout invested in TMRW Sports, which uses Harnessing technology to create fresh pathways for the upcoming generations in the world of sports, media, and entertainment.Â  More than a decade in the MLB: An insight into his MLB Career stats In his over twelve year long career (2011-Present) in the Major Leagues with the Los Angeles Angels, Mike Trout has compiled the following career statistics:  Career Regular Season Stats  Home runs 368  Batting average .301  RBI 940  AB 5402  Stolen Bases 206  OBP .412  OPS .994  What are Mike Troutâ€™s Records Mike Trout is famous around baseball for several reasons, not the least of which is his most recent bumper contract extension in 2019 which made him the highest paid player in the league at the time. Trout is also famous for being stingy with his words on social media in a world where players seem to be eager to capitalize on all forms of their brand image. However, Mike Trout&#8217;s undoubtable claim to fame is his ability to dispatch pitches. The hitter treats most pitchers in the league with impunity. Mike Trout has registered some of the most mind boggling stats on show. He led the league in runs 4 times; 2012 through 2014 and 2016. And if this wasn&#8217;t enough he has led the tally of times on base in 4 seasons too, with 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018 seeing some stunning displays. The emergent Trout was so effective in his early seasons that he led the charts on the Wins-Above Replacement charts in each of his first 5 full seasons in the league. A winner: Mike Troutâ€™s Major Achievement and Awards 11Ã— All-Star (2012â€“2019, 2021â€“2023) 3Ã— AL MVP (2014, 2016, 2019) 3Ã— All-MLB First Team (2019, 2020, 2022) AL Rookie of the Year (2012) 9Ã— Silver Slugger Award (2012â€“2016, 2018â€“2020, 2022) 2Ã— AL Hank Aaron Award (2014, 2019) AL RBI leader (2014) AL stolen base leader (2012) 30â€“30 club (2012) Life as a philanthropist: Mike Troutâ€™s Charity and Foundation Apart from his on-field brilliance, Mike Trout is usually seen contributing to various philanthropic and charitable activities. The Los Angeles Angels star is majorly involved in three major philanthropic endeavors. The first being Big Brothers/Big Sisters, is a one-to-one mentoring relationship aimed at critical social and emotional development which is needed to build resilience and promote mental health and well-being of children across America. With #KeepKidsConnected, various Big Brothers/Big Sisters agencies are stepping forward to serve their best. Moreover, Trout is also working with Major League Baseballâ€™s MLB Together platform and its associated people to highlight the significance of mental health among players. Next comes the Care and Share Lunches. It is a Summer Food Service Program, which makes sure the children get nutritious meals during summers in lieu of lack of school breakfast or lunch. In addition to the SFSP operating hours, the Care and Share operated a select number of Summer Mobile Food Pantries in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.Â  The latest philanthropic activity is the â€œAMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION (AFSP), which aims at suicide prevention. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for not only you or your loved ones, but also the best practices for professionals. Moreover, Troutâ€™s brother in law, Aaron Cox, lost his life to suicide in 2018. With respect to the name, Mike and his wife Jessica joined hands with an apparel brand, Tiny Turnup, to launch â€œYour Game Isnâ€™t Over Yetâ€ campaign.Â  Trout is involved in charity work both in Southern California and in his native New Jersey, especially near his hometown of Millville. Among the various organizations the one is the Make-A-Wish Foundation, where in every year Trout fulfils a wish from a fan. This year he was named the clubâ€™s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, which is given to players involved . For his nomination, commendable that Trout chose JR98 for the MLB Charities&#8217; donation, supporting mental health and suicide prevention in memory of Jean Ramirez. The work of organizations like JR98 is crucial for raising awareness and providing support in these challenging areas.Â  Mike Troutâ€™s Shoe deal Ever since his debut in 2011, Mike trout has been seen embracing the Nike cleats, paving his way to brilliance and style. Back in October 2023, the brand launched the Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout&#8217;s ninth signature baseball cleat named â€œNike Force Zoom Trout 9 Eliteâ€. As per the 9x silver slugger awardeeâ€™s iterations on the rest 8 cleaners the Trout 9 line is believed to be the most durable and comfortable fit. Per Nike, &#8220;We took all the benefits of the past 8 iterations and put them into the Trout 9, while making it lighter, stronger and more comfortable, all so you can do more damage with less distractions.&#8221; Mike Troutâ€™s House Back in 2019, the baseball world saw the Anglesâ€™ superstar sign a history-making $425 million deal with the Halos. Shortly after a part of that sum was dedicated to purchase a mansion in California. Originally listed for $9.5 million, the house was bought for $9.15 million. Troutâ€™s house is situated in the gated Harbor Ridge, roughly 20 miles away from Angel Stadium in Anaheim.Â  Originally built in 1982 in Tudor style, the mansion currently entails six bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Apart from an incredible formal entryway,Â  three-story floor, and backyard, the house has panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and Catalina Island. The family moved in the house in the 2020 offseason and has been living in it ever since.Â  Mike Troutâ€™s Rings Information about Mike Troutâ€™s Rings remains undisclosed. Mike Troutâ€™s car collectionÂ  Mike&#8217;s impressive assortment of cars features the Ford F-150 Raptor, a 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Midnight Edition, a 2000 Ford Ranger, and a sleek black Mercedes-Benz. Mike&#8217;s coveted car collection ensures that every time he takes the wheel, heads are sure to turn. Mike Troutâ€™s Bike CollectionÂ  Details regarding the specific bike driven by Juan Soto remain private. Mike Troutâ€™s Social Media Accounts Mike Trout is active on social media:  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/miketrout/?hl=en  Twitter https://twitter.com/MikeTrout  Facebook https://m.facebook.com/MikeTrout27?refid=13&amp;__tn__=%2Cg    Know More About Mike Trout  Personal Information:  Full Name Michael Nelson Trout  Popular Name Mike Trout  Date Of Birth August 7, 1991  Birth Place Vineland, NJ  Age 32  Height 1.88 m  Weight 107 kg  Parents Jeff and DebbieTrout  Siblings Teal and Tyle Trout  Nationality American  Ethnicity Caucasian  Net Worth $140 million  Salary $35.4 million  Wife Jessica Cox  Relationship/Marital Status Married  Children Beckham Aaron Trout  Profession Baseball player  Team Los Angeles Angels  Rings NA

Mike Trout Archives

Mike Trout Archives - EssentiallySports

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Shohei Ohtani: Net Worth 2024, MLB Career, Relationships, and More</h2>
<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">What is the net worth of Los Angeles Dodgers' star Shohei Ohtani?</h2>
As described by the media and his sponsors, Shohei Ohtani is a once-in-a-lifetime talent who recently inked a history-breaking $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to various sources, Shohei Ohtani's net worth was approximately $50 million in 2023, prior to landing a deal with the Dodgers.Â 


[caption id="attachment_2541444" align="aligncenter" width="8001"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2541444" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-22T010301Z_1643876178_MT1USATODAY22156122_RTRMADP_3_NFL-NEW-ORLEANS-SAINTS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-RAMS.jpg" alt="" width="8001" height="5334" /> Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani attends the game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
While the specifics of the contract clauses are kept confidential, industry experts speculate that Ohtani stands to potentially earn approximately $105 million annually in 2024. This estimated sum combines his salary from the Dodgers and endorsement deals. With Ohtani being a generational talent, his parents deserve a special mention.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Who are his parents? All you need to know about his life and family</h2>
On July 5th, 1994, the baseball unicorn-to-be was born to Toru and Kayoko Ohtani in Oshu, Japan. For the unversed, Sho-time hails from a family of athletes. On the one hand, his father, Toru, earned a livelihood by working in a local automobile manufacturing plant in the same country, and he was an avid baseball player in the Japanese Industrial League. Recognizing young Shohei's natural talent for the game, Toru understood the importance of wholeheartedly dedicating himself to coaching his son.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2571375" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Ohtani-Parents.png" alt="" width="1132" height="822" />
On the other hand, Shoheiâ€™s mother was in a different league altogether. In her high school days, Kayoko actively played badminton, which led her school authorities to keep her reserved for the local games. 
In a brief span, her exceptional skills on the court propelled her to the national level. Nevertheless, she opted to retire from sports in her late twenties and prioritized her family.
Ryuta Ohtani, the older brother of Shohei, initially pursued a career as an amateur baseball player and later transitioned into coaching for a corporate baseball team. Meanwhile, their sister, Yuka, engaged in volleyball during her teenage years before embarking on a career in the medical field. It is safe to say that sports run in the blood of the Ohtanis.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">A Star on the Diamond: A Look at Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s Baseball Career</h2>
After being trained by his father, the now-best baseball player in the world", he attended Hanamaki Higashi High School, pitching for the school team. At just 18, Ohtani showed his incredible pitching ability by tossing a near-100-mph fastball.
Although he wished to join the major leagues right after high school, Ohtani joined the Japanese team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2013. It was here that Ohtani honed his skills as a hitter and a pitcher to become one of the hottest prospects in baseball. He recorded some of the best statistics of any Japanese player, ranging from strikeouts to home runs in the sport's history.


[caption id="attachment_1735240" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1735240" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-05-10T230436Z_1529850878_MT1USATODAY20637185_RTRMADP_3_MLB-HOUSTON-ASTROS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-ANGELS.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani" width="1920" height="1280" /> May 10, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates with the kabuto helmet after hitting a two run home run against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
Amidst interest from many MLB teams, Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Angels in December 2017. He played his first MLB game against the Oakland Athletics on March 29, 2018. During this game, he played as a designated hitter, hitting a single on his first at-bat. Two days later, he made his pitching debut against the same opponents.
He won the American League Rookie of the Year in 2018, marking his potential for the rest of the MLB. However, he suffered a bipartite patella injury in 2019, which cut short his second MLB season. Prior to this, the Japanese star underwent Tommy John surgery, which put his pitching career in doubt.
In 2020, Ohtani suffered a flexor strain on his elbow, which once again endangered his pitching capability. However, the then-27-year-old produced one of his finest MLB seasons in 2021, both as a pitcher and a hitter. After delivering one of the best and most remarkable seasons in 2022, Ohtani asserted, â€œMy pitching numbers are better. Iâ€™m just playing with more confidence after experiencing last year.â€


[caption id="attachment_781400" align="aligncenter" width="1392"]<img class="size-full wp-image-781400" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-09-26T014826Z_1535639680_MT1USATODAY16829036_RTRMADP_3_MLB-SEATTLE-MARINERS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-ANGELS.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani At Yankee Stadium" width="1392" height="1920" /> Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) triples against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
In his sixth Major League season with the Angels, the 29-year-old has garnered various accolades in both diamond and mound. From ranking in the Top Four in the American League in home runs and recording a second career 40+ HR season as a hitter to leading the AL to pitching his first career complete game and first shutout as a pitcher to record 10+ pitching wins and 30+ HR for a second consecutive season. In every aspect, the baseball season of 2023 will go down in history as the Year of Ohtani. Why? Owing to his â€œrecord-settingâ€ deal.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Largest contract in the MLB history: Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s contract in detail</h2>
On December 9, 2023, shortly after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, Shohei Ohtani concluded his initial venture into free agency by inking a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although the â€œrichest in North American sports history," this deal had a catch: $68 million out of the $70 million annually are deferrals. This clearly means Ohtani is set to earn only $2 million a year from 2024 to 2033. The deferred payments, which is $68 million a year, will be distributed without interest from 2034 to 2043.


[caption id="attachment_2463072" align="aligncenter" width="2339"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2463072" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-14T233308Z_1005565715_UP1EJCE1TF7I2_RTRMADP_3_BASEBALL-MLB-OHTANI-NEWSER.jpg" alt="Shohei Ohtani" width="2339" height="1614" /> Baseball - Shohei Ohtani Press Conference - Centerfield Plaza, Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California, United States - December 14, 2023 Shohei Ohtani during the press conference REUTERS/Aude Guerrucci[/caption]
By the time Ohtani starts receiving his deferrals, a contract with the Dodgers will no longer bind him. According to experts, the two-way phenomenon is poised to potentially save between $90 and $100 million in state taxes, mainly because he is a resident outside of California after the conclusion of his â€œpretty interestingâ€ structured contract on paper.

<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">A successful journey: All his achievements so far</h2>
From staying local with Nippon Professional Baseball to becoming the unicorn in the Major League lights, Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s baseball journey is a testament to grit, talent, and wanderlust. Here are all his achievements so far:
International

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">World Baseball Classic MVP (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">All-World Baseball Classic Team (2023)</li>
</ul>
MLB

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">AL Hank Aaron Award (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">AL home run leader (2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">3Ã— All-Star (2021â€“2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— AL MVP (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">4Ã— All-MLB First Team (2021-2023Â²)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2022)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— Silver Slugger Award (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">3Ã— Edgar MartÃ­nez Award (2021â€“2023)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">2Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2021, 2023)</li>
 	<li>Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award (2021)</li>
 	<li>AL triples leader (2021)</li>
 	<li>AL Rookie of the Year (2018)</li>
</ul>
NPB

<ul style="color: #252525">
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Japan Series champion (2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League MVP (2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015â€“2016)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League ERA leader (2015)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;color: #252525">WBSC Player of the Year (2015)</li>
 	<li>5Ã— NPB All-Star (2013â€“2017)</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="color: #252525;text-align: center">Is he married? The truth behind his relationship with Kamalani Dung</h2>
â€œOhtani likes to keep his cards close to his chest." Didnâ€™t we already notice this most recently while he was adamant about keeping his free agency moves private? Surprisingly, this applies to not only his professional life but also his personal life. 
Ohtani, who is officially and publicly married to Mamiko Tanaka since the late February of this year, has been a victim of marriage rumors. Although not much is known about Ohtani's past relationships or the woman in his contact, Kamalani Dung, a Hawaiian woman who is said to be a professional softball player, was once strongly linked to the Japanese man.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1585948" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Adobe_Express_20220513_2049360-1024x576-1.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="576" />
Having represented Puerto Rico in the sport as a right-handed pitcher, Dung is called a "YouTube Pitcher." As the name suggests, Kamalani acquired her softball throwing skills through YouTube videos and tutorials. Even after this, she managed to earn a gold medal at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Incidentally, in the same year, the now-26-year-old posted a picture with Ohtani on her Instagram account. As soon as the post went viral, the baseball fandom was quick to conclude: â€˜Ohtani dating Dungâ€™. However, immediately after, Dung cleared the air, stating that she was just a massive fan of Shohei.

<table style="color: #252525;width: 91.9149%">
<tbody style="color: #252525">
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Age
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
29
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Nationality
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
Japanese
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Team
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
Los Angeles Dodgers
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Net Worth
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">
$50million
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%;text-align: left">
Endorsements
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%;text-align: left">Hugo Boss, Topps, Fanatics, Oakley, ASICS, Seiko Watch, JAL Airlines, Descente, New BalanceÂ </td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Height
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
1.93M
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Weight
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
94kg
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
Marital Status
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
Single
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="color: #252525">
<td style="color: #252525;width: 25.2418%">
ParentsÂ 
</td>
<td style="color: #252525;width: 65.3597%">
Kayoko Ohtani and Toru Ohtani
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani: Net Worth 2024, MLB Career, Relationships, and More What is the net worth of Los Angeles Dodgers&#8217; star Shohei Ohtani? As described by the media and his sponsors, Shohei Ohtani is a once-in-a-lifetime talent who recently inked a history-breaking $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to various sources, Shohei Ohtani&#8217;s net worth was approximately $50 million in 2023, prior to landing a deal with the Dodgers.Â  Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani attends the game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports While the specifics of the contract clauses are kept confidential, industry experts speculate that Ohtani stands to potentially earn approximately $105 million annually in 2024. This estimated sum combines his salary from the Dodgers and endorsement deals. With Ohtani being a generational talent, his parents deserve a special mention. Who are his parents? All you need to know about his life and family On July 5th, 1994, the baseball unicorn-to-be was born to Toru and Kayoko Ohtani in Oshu, Japan. For the unversed, Sho-time hails from a family of athletes. On the one hand, his father, Toru, earned a livelihood by working in a local automobile manufacturing plant in the same country, and he was an avid baseball player in the Japanese Industrial League. Recognizing young Shohei&#8217;s natural talent for the game, Toru understood the importance of wholeheartedly dedicating himself to coaching his son. On the other hand, Shoheiâ€™s mother was in a different league altogether. In her high school days, Kayoko actively played badminton, which led her school authorities to keep her reserved for the local games. In a brief span, her exceptional skills on the court propelled her to the national level. Nevertheless, she opted to retire from sports in her late twenties and prioritized her family. Ryuta Ohtani, the older brother of Shohei, initially pursued a career as an amateur baseball player and later transitioned into coaching for a corporate baseball team. Meanwhile, their sister, Yuka, engaged in volleyball during her teenage years before embarking on a career in the medical field. It is safe to say that sports run in the blood of the Ohtanis. A Star on the Diamond: A Look at Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s Baseball Career After being trained by his father, the now-best baseball player in the world&#8221;, he attended Hanamaki Higashi High School, pitching for the school team. At just 18, Ohtani showed his incredible pitching ability by tossing a near-100-mph fastball. Although he wished to join the major leagues right after high school, Ohtani joined the Japanese team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2013. It was here that Ohtani honed his skills as a hitter and a pitcher to become one of the hottest prospects in baseball. He recorded some of the best statistics of any Japanese player, ranging from strikeouts to home runs in the sport&#8217;s history. May 10, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates with the kabuto helmet after hitting a two run home run against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Amidst interest from many MLB teams, Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Angels in December 2017. He played his first MLB game against the Oakland Athletics on March 29, 2018. During this game, he played as a designated hitter, hitting a single on his first at-bat. Two days later, he made his pitching debut against the same opponents. He won the American League Rookie of the Year in 2018, marking his potential for the rest of the MLB. However, he suffered a bipartite patella injury in 2019, which cut short his second MLB season. Prior to this, the Japanese star underwent Tommy John surgery, which put his pitching career in doubt. In 2020, Ohtani suffered a flexor strain on his elbow, which once again endangered his pitching capability. However, the then-27-year-old produced one of his finest MLB seasons in 2021, both as a pitcher and a hitter. After delivering one of the best and most remarkable seasons in 2022, Ohtani asserted, â€œMy pitching numbers are better. Iâ€™m just playing with more confidence after experiencing last year.â€ Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) triples against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports In his sixth Major League season with the Angels, the 29-year-old has garnered various accolades in both diamond and mound. From ranking in the Top Four in the American League in home runs and recording a second career 40+ HR season as a hitter to leading the AL to pitching his first career complete game and first shutout as a pitcher to record 10+ pitching wins and 30+ HR for a second consecutive season. In every aspect, the baseball season of 2023 will go down in history as the Year of Ohtani. Why? Owing to his â€œrecord-settingâ€ deal. Largest contract in the MLB history: Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s contract in detail On December 9, 2023, shortly after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, Shohei Ohtani concluded his initial venture into free agency by inking a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although the â€œrichest in North American sports history,&#8221; this deal had a catch: $68 million out of the $70 million annually are deferrals. This clearly means Ohtani is set to earn only $2 million a year from 2024 to 2033. The deferred payments, which is $68 million a year, will be distributed without interest from 2034 to 2043. Baseball &#8211; Shohei Ohtani Press Conference &#8211; Centerfield Plaza, Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California, United States &#8211; December 14, 2023 Shohei Ohtani during the press conference REUTERS/Aude Guerrucci By the time Ohtani starts receiving his deferrals, a contract with the Dodgers will no longer bind him. According to experts, the two-way phenomenon is poised to potentially save between $90 and $100 million in state taxes, mainly because he is a resident outside of California after the conclusion of his â€œpretty interestingâ€ structured contract on paper. A successful journey: All his achievements so far From staying local with Nippon Professional Baseball to becoming the unicorn in the Major League lights, Shohei Ohtaniâ€™s baseball journey is a testament to grit, talent, and wanderlust. Here are all his achievements so far: International World Baseball Classic MVP (2023) All-World Baseball Classic Team (2023) MLB AL Hank Aaron Award (2023) AL home run leader (2023) 3Ã— All-Star (2021â€“2023) 2Ã— AL MVP (2021, 2023) 4Ã— All-MLB First Team (2021-2023Â²) 2Ã— All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2022) 2Ã— Silver Slugger Award (2021, 2023) 3Ã— Edgar MartÃ­nez Award (2021â€“2023) 2Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2021, 2023) Commissioner&#8217;s Historic Achievement Award (2021) AL triples leader (2021) AL Rookie of the Year (2018) NPB Japan Series champion (2016) Pacific League MVP (2016) Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016) 2Ã— Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018) 2Ã— Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015â€“2016) Pacific League ERA leader (2015) Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015) WBSC Player of the Year (2015) 5Ã— NPB All-Star (2013â€“2017) Is he married? The truth behind his relationship with Kamalani Dung â€œOhtani likes to keep his cards close to his chest.&#8221; Didnâ€™t we already notice this most recently while he was adamant about keeping his free agency moves private? Surprisingly, this applies to not only his professional life but also his personal life. Ohtani, who is officially and publicly married to Mamiko Tanaka since the late February of this year, has been a victim of marriage rumors. Although not much is known about Ohtani&#8217;s past relationships or the woman in his contact, Kamalani Dung, a Hawaiian woman who is said to be a professional softball player, was once strongly linked to the Japanese man. Having represented Puerto Rico in the sport as a right-handed pitcher, Dung is called a &#8220;YouTube Pitcher.&#8221; As the name suggests, Kamalani acquired her softball throwing skills through YouTube videos and tutorials. Even after this, she managed to earn a gold medal at the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, Colombia. Incidentally, in the same year, the now-26-year-old posted a picture with Ohtani on her Instagram account. As soon as the post went viral, the baseball fandom was quick to conclude: â€˜Ohtani dating Dungâ€™. However, immediately after, Dung cleared the air, stating that she was just a massive fan of Shohei.   Age  29   Nationality  Japanese   Team  Los Angeles Dodgers   Net Worth  $50million   Endorsements Hugo Boss, Topps, Fanatics, Oakley, ASICS, Seiko Watch, JAL Airlines, Descente, New BalanceÂ   Height  1.93M   Weight  94kg   Marital Status  Single   ParentsÂ   Kayoko Ohtani and Toru Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani Parts With $10,000 Possession to Ensure Fellow Japanese Hero Joins Him World Baseball Classic 2026

Shohei Ohtani bid adieu to a prized possession to make Lars Nootbaar make a promise