Shohei Ohtani expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received during his inaugural home game in a Dodgers’ uniform, delighting the sold-out crowd at Los Angeles’ Chavez Ravine by reaching base three times in a commanding 7-1 victory over St. Louis on Thursday.
The Japanese sensation was met with thunderous applause as he was introduced on a sun-drenched day, and he reciprocated the fans’ enthusiasm with an impressive display, notching a single, double, and walk throughout the game.
“I’m incredibly thankful to be a part of the Dodgers and to receive such a warm welcome from the fans,” remarked Ohtani, who joined the team on a groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million contract from the Los Angeles Angels during the off-season. “Though I’ve competed here as an opponent in the past, the support was overwhelming, and I’m truly grateful to the fans who turned out in full force.”
In his initial plate appearance, Ohtani, who has been linked to a betting controversy involving his former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, showcased his aggression, battling through pitches before being tagged out while attempting to extend a double into a triple.
Donned in Dodger blue and white, fans appreciated the hustle displayed by their new designated hitter. Meanwhile, the team’s star power was further evident as both Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, both former MVPs, contributed home runs in the third inning.
“While I may have been the lone player unable to hit a homer, I believe I had a solid performance today,” remarked Ohtani, who has vehemently denied any involvement in the ongoing investigation by MLB surrounding the betting scandal. “Overall, I felt I delivered quality at-bats.” The Dodgers’ victory was bolstered by a solid six-inning outing from Tyler Glasnow on the mound.
Following a high-profile spending spree that secured the signings of Ohtani, as well as right-handed pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Glasnow, expectations are soaring for the Dodgers. The organization, hungry for a World Series triumph after three consecutive 100-win seasons concluded in disappointment, is poised for a remarkable season ahead.
