After what felt like years, Ohtani has finally announced that he’ll be joining The Los Angeles Dodgers on a 10 year $700M deal. Joining the lineup that consists of, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, Max Muncy, James Outman, Chris Taylor, Jason Heyman, and Gavin Lux. The 2x MVP, ROY, 3x All- Star, 2x silver slugger, ML PoY will fit in perfectly.
The player announced on his Instagram on December 9th, thanking the Los Angeles Angels Organization and fans for all that they’ve done for him, and for sticking through during all the ups and downs. “Your guys' support and cheer meant the world to me. The six years I spent with the Angels will remain etched in my heart forever.” Said Ohtani.
Ohtani had a great 2023 season, even when it was cut short. Here are his stats from the 2023 season
Pitching stats- G-23, 132.0 IP, 167 SO, 1.06 WHIP, BABIP .239,FIP 3.46.
Batting stats- .304 AVG, 44 HR, 95 RBI, 1.066 OPS, .384 wOBA, 145 wRC+, 4.2 WAR.
Here is a reminder that Ohtani will not be pitching in 2024 due to a torn UCL and will be back in 2025. Luckily, he does both hitting and pitching. So what can we expect? Ohtani also stated on his Instagram that he'll always put in his best effort when it comes down to contributing to the team, “And to all Dodgers fans, I pledge to always do what's best for the team and always continue to give it my all to be the best version of myself. Until the last day of my playing career, I want to continue to strive forward not only for the Dodgers but for the baseball world.”
We’re in for an exciting 2024 season with this stacked lineup. How far will The Dodgers go now having Ohtani?