LOS ANGELES: Shohei Ohtani expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received in his inaugural home game wearing a Dodgers’ uniform, acknowledging the sold-out Los Angeles crowd for their enthusiastic welcome. He showcased his appreciation by delivering an impressive performance, reaching base three times in a commanding 7-1 triumph over St. Louis on Thursday.
Amidst the thunderous applause that greeted him at Chavez Ravine on a radiant day, Ohtani reciprocated the fans’ support with a stellar display, notching a single, double, and a walk. Reflecting on his reception, Ohtani, who transitioned to the Dodgers from the Los Angeles Angels in the off-season under a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, expressed his gratitude towards the Dodgers’ faithful.
Acknowledging the initial intimidation of facing his new home crowd as an opponent player, Ohtani embraced the warm welcome, emphasizing the overwhelming presence of supportive fans.
Despite a betting scandal involving his former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani displayed determination in his first at-bat, showcasing aggression and hustle, although he was thrown out while attempting to stretch a double into a triple. The Blue-and-white clad Dodgers fans appreciated Ohtani’s effort, further buoyed by home runs from Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman.
Reflecting on his performance, Ohtani emphasized the quality of his at-bats, despite falling short of hitting a homer. Tyler Glasnow’s solid six innings of pitching contributed to the Dodgers’ comfortable victory.
With high expectations following a significant offseason spending spree, including the acquisitions of Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Glasnow, the Dodgers aim to break their World Series drought after three consecutive 100-win seasons ended in disappointment.
