Los Angeles Dodgers sensation Shohei Ohtani took heart stage at SoFi Stadium on Thursday evening throughout the NFL matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints.
Earlier this offseason, Ohtani’s determination to affix the Dodgers made headlines as the largest transfer in MLB historical past, solidifying his place within the ranks of sports activities legends.
On Thursday morning, his stellar yr was additional acknowledged as he was named the Related Press Male Athlete of the 12 months.
Followers cannot get sufficient of Ohtani at SoFi Stadium
Because the evening unfolded, Ohtani and his translator, Ippei Mizuhara, turned a viral sensation, gracing the NFL recreation with their presence.
The Rams, acknowledging the importance of Ohtani’s go to, paid tribute to the pitcher by presenting him with a personalized jersey bearing his identify and quantity.
Throughout pregame Ohtani roamed the sidelines taking within the environment within the NFL’s latest stadium whereas interacting with Rams gamers, together with their mascot Rampage.
The Dodgers phenom was even seen holding a soccer, however he did not try and throw the ball.
Ohtani dedicated to representing LA’s sports activities tradition
Contemporary off signing the richest contract in American skilled sports activities, Ohtani’s determination to take part in Los Angeles occasions past baseball showcases his dedication to partaking with the town’s various sports activities tradition.
Whereas his former workforce, the Angels, holds “Los Angeles” of their identify, Ohtani’s presence at SoFi Stadium solidifies his integration into the town’s broader sports activities group.
One notable one who shares Ohtani’s highlight is his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who’s a key determine within the baseball star’s entourage.
Mizuhara, with roots in Japan and a deep connection to Los Angeles, has change into a mainstay in baseball circles worldwide, facilitating communication for Ohtani as he works on enhancing his English proficiency.
