Some decisions make sense. Others leave you wondering if you missed something. In MLB, star rankings fall in the first category—except when they do not. When a legend curates a list of who he thinks will dominate the season, it naturally turns heads. And that’s exactly what happened when Shohei Ohtani, identified for his two-way dominance, shared his 2025 top player predictions.

The list was not just surprising—it sparked debates related to team dynamics, individual value, and the future of MLB. But the biggest shock? It was not related to who made, but who did not.

So, Freddie Freeman was the most intriguing missing name from the two-way phenom’s list. Despite Freeman’s elite production, Mookie Betts was the only Dodger the Japanese talent listed. But Betts’ making the list is not shocking; he is a superstar. Unlike Freeman, Betts’ game extends beyond just hitting—his defensive excellence, speed and capability to play multiple positions make him a dynamic addition in baseball. With six Gold Gloves compared to Freeman’s one and a higher career WAR (70.3 vs. 61.8), Betts’ all-around effect likely made him a clear choice for Ohtani.

But still, Freeman’s omission raised eyebrows because he has been the most consistent hitter, posting a .300 career average with over 2,200 hits and 1,200 RBIs—numbers that scream elite production. In 2024, he was not just good—he was dominant. Yet, he was overshadowed by names like Adley Rutschman and Steven Kwan. 

But why did Ohtani leave him out? The most obvious reason could be his age and role. Freeman turns 35 next season, and while he is still among the best, MLB is shifting toward versatile and younger stars. But that is not the whole story.

Ohtani might have also valued defensive versatility and speed instead of pure hitting. Freddie Freeman is locked in at first base, and Betts has the experience to play at second base, shortstop, and outfield. Could this hint at how Ohtani views the future of the Dodgers’ core?

Shohei Ohtani’s list and the transforming landscape of the MLB

Shohei Ohtani’s choices were not just related to talent; they hinted at a transformation in MLB’s priorities. His top batters—Adley Rutschman, Steven Kwan, and Mookie Betts have a few things in common: They focus on contact, speed, and defensive versatility over raw power.

See Adley Rutschman. The Orioles’ catcher was an offensive force in 2024. He slashed .277/.355/.459 with 23 HR and 85 RBIs. He also guided all catchers in WAR with 6.2 and had one of the better framing rates in the league. Then there is Steven Kwan. He posted a .298 batting average, a .374 OBP, and the second-lowest strikeout rate in baseball at 10.2 percent. Instead of relying on brute force, the star dominated with plate discipline and speed.

And Mookie Betts’s inclusion over Freeman reinforces this trend. Betts’s defensive power, base-running, and well-rounded capabilities might have given him the edge in Ohtani’s thought. We can only guess, right?

The trend was not limited to hitters. The 3-time Silver Slugger Award winner’s selections highlight that MLB’s next generation of talents will be defined by consistency and adaptability instead of just overpowering things.

Let’s talk about Zac Gallen, too, here! A vital force for the Diamondbacks. He put up a 3.28 ERA with 210 strikeouts over 190 innings in 2024. Unlike flame-throwing pitchers who rely on velocity, he succeeds with pinpoint control. In addition, Tarik Skubal dominated the game with a 2.80 ERA and a league-best HR/9 rate. It was a limiting home run, but he still racked up a 5.1 WAR.

Ohtani’s closer pick, Ryan Helsley, was not just related to strikeouts; his 2.61 ERA and 35 saves highlighted efficiency and reliability in high-leverage situations.

And all of these point at a new era in MLB, where pitchers who limit walks, control the game, and adapt take center stage over pure strikeout artists. Shotime’s selections reveal a shift toward a smarter, more strategic version of baseball—one where versatility, plate discipline, and command define the next wave of superstars.

Would you like to share your thoughts about Ohtani’s picks?