2023 free agency ‘King’ and two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani might have been making huge strides across the MLB universe since his debut. But his better-than-perfect form and consistent hitting and pitching techniques started way beyond the realms of the MLB, or the diamond, even. Ohtani used to live like a monk during his NPB days. A perfect fit for a slugger who wields both the bat and the ball like a god, won’t you say?

Ohtani has been named the world’s best baseball player and the most phenomenal two-way performer of the century by fans, teammates, and MLB insiders alike. He was recently named the American League MVP for the second time. What is the secret behind the unicorn’s steadfast two-way performance?

Shohei Ohtani and his pre-MLB regime

Following his five-year Nippon Professional Baseball League stay, Shohei Ohtani wrapped up his career with seven complete shutouts, striking out 624 and a 2.52 ERA across 543 innings pitched. His extraordinary performance on Japan’s field caught the attention of many National League scouts; however, only a few knew how committed Ohtani was to his sport, even behind closed doors.

In the words of an anonymous National League scout, “He never went out and lived almost like a monk. He didn’t care about anything else, it seemed, than getting better at baseball,” he continued. Ohtani reportedly used to live off of an allowance of $1000 sent to him by his parents every month. Shotime’s entire world revolved around his sport and evolving his performance. He still functions the same, despite his waxing performance; the slugger seldom misses out on a chance to learn better and earn more recognition on the field.

The Monk of the Mound

Shohei Ohtani has always been this obsessed with baseball if his past is any proof. He became a nationwide sensation upon entering the professional baseball scene. Regardless of his early yet well-deserved status and fame, he seldom let himself fall prey to life’s vices. He has always been strict regarding what to allow and what not to allow when it comes to protecting his form.

In his NPB days, he stayed in their dormitory along with his teammates. The introverted slugger further averted any personal interaction with other players if their weekly plans involved indulgences like drinking alcohol or partying. Rather than hopping pubs and blowing up with smoke and booze, Ohtani focused on his solitude. He either used that time outside the field to read books on playstyle improvement or spent it playing video games and working out. Vouching for him to be named the Monk of the Mound. Anyone?

Read More: Shohei Ohtani Sweepstakes Heat Up as Cubs, Mets, and Yankees Duel for Two-Way Phenom’s Signature

Shohei Ohtani will be out for most of the 2024 season, recovering from elbow surgery. Fans can only hope that Shotime gets back on the field in his ever-perfect form as soon as possible.

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