Shohei Ohtani: podcast appearances and interviews

Shohei Ohtani, born on July 5, 1994, is a Japanese professional baseball player known for his roles as a designated hitter and pitcher. Currently playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB), he has previously played for the Los Angeles Angels in MLB and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Recognized for his exceptional two-way playing abilities, Ohtani's seasons have been regarded as among the greatest in baseball history, with comparisons drawn to Babe Ruth's early career. Drafted first by the Fighters in 2012, he played for them from 2013 to 2017, winning the 2016 Japan Series. After being posted to MLB following the 2017 season, Ohtani signed with the Angels and received the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2018. His performance in 2021, where he hit 46 home runs and struck out 156 batters, earned him the AL Most Valuable Player Award and the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award. In 2022, he became the first player in the modern era to qualify for both hitting and pitching leaderboards in one season. Ohtani won his second AL MVP award in 2023, leading the league with 44 home runs and recording 10 wins as a pitcher, becoming the first Japanese-born player to win a league home run title. He signed a ten-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers after the 2023 season. During 2024, he only played as a designated hitter due to injury but was named the NL MVP after recording 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases while winning the World Series. Returning to pitching in 2025, he set a franchise record with 55 home runs, won his third consecutive MVP award, and contributed to back-to-back championships. Ohtani also represents Japan internationally, leading Team Japan to victory at the 2023 World Baseball Classic and earning MVP honors. He has been recognized globally for his influence and has sold more jerseys than any other player worldwide since 2023.