Why Is Shohei Ohtani the Most Talked-About Player in MLB This Year?

Hey there! Let’s talk about Shohei Ohtani, a baseball superstar who’s doing things we’ve never seen before.

He’s both a great pitcher and a powerful hitter.

This post will give you all the cool details about his recent games, stats, money stuff, and even a bit about his personal life.

Shohei Ohtani: Key Facts and Highlights

CategoryDetails
Games Played851
Home Runs222
RBIs557
Stolen Bases137
Batting Average.278
On-base Percentage (OBP).368
Slugging Percentage (SLG).570
2024 Home Runs54
2024 OPS1.041
Net Worth (2024)$50 million
Contract10-year, $700 million (2023-2033)
Endorsements (2024)$40-50 million annually
50-50 ClubFirst player with 50 HRs and 50 stolen bases in a season
Pitching in 2024Did not pitch (recovering from Tommy John surgery)
FamilyParents: Toru and Kayoko; Siblings: Ryuta and Yuka
Personal LifeMarried, announced February 29, 2024

Shohei Ohtani: A Career Like No Other

I’ve always believed there are a few moments in sports that make you sit up, take notice, and think, “This guy’s changing everything.”

Shohei Ohtani is one of those moments.

He’s the kind of player we talk about in stories passed down.

My Look at Ohtani’s Batting Stats

When you see what Ohtani’s done with a bat in his hands, it’s hard not to be impressed.

These numbers tell the story of a guy who’s mastered his craft:

  • Games Played: 851
  • At Bats: 3,082
  • Runs Scored: 551
  • Hits: 857
  • Doubles: 163
  • Triples: 36
  • Home Runs: 222
  • RBIs (Runs Batted In): 557
  • Walks: 428
  • Strikeouts: 913
  • Stolen Bases: 137
  • Batting Average: .278
  • On-base Percentage: .368
  • Slugging Percentage: .570
  • OPS (On-base Plus Slugging): .938

These numbers show more than just talent—they show consistency and an ability to deliver in the clutch.

He’s not just a power hitter or a contact hitter. He’s both.

Seasons That Stand Out

Let me tell you, Ohtani’s seasons aren’t just good—they’re legendary.

Here are the ones that really caught my attention:

  • 2024 Season
    • Games Played: 150
    • Hits: 176
    • Home Runs: 54
    • RBIs: 130
    • Batting Average: .309
    • OPS: 1.041
    • Milestone: First player ever with 50 homers and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
  • 2023 Season
    • Games Played: 135
    • Hits: 151
    • Home Runs: 44
    • RBIs: 95
    • Batting Average: .304
    • OPS: 1.066
  • 2022 Season
    • Games Played: 157
    • Hits: 160
    • Home Runs: 34
    • RBIs: 95
    • Batting Average: .273
    • OPS: .875

What I love most about these seasons is the upward trend.

Each year, Ohtani’s pushing the limits of what’s possible, showing us that you don’t need to fit into a box to succeed.

“Shohei Ohtani is redefining what it means to be a superstar in baseball,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts after the game. “His ability to excel both at the plate and on the mound is something we haven’t seen in generations.” (Source: Los Angeles Times)

Shohei Ohtani’s Contract with the Angels

Ohtani isn’t with the Angels anymore. In December 2023, he signed a huge 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers. Here are the key points:

  • Duration: 10 years
  • Total Value: $700 million
  • Average Annual Value: $70 million
  • Actual Annual Salary: $2 million per year
  • Deferred Money: $68 million per year, paid from 2034-2043

Before this, his contracts with the Angels included:

  • Signing Bonus: $2,315,000 in 2017
  • Pre-arbitration Contracts: $545,000 to $700,000 annually (2018-2020)
  • Arbitration Extension: $8.5 million for 2021-2022
  • One-Year Contract: $30 million for 2023

“Signing Ohtani was a no-brainer for us,” said Dodgers’ GM Andrew Friedman. “His presence not only elevates our lineup but also brings an electrifying dynamic to the team.” (Source: ESPN)

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What Ohtani’s Worth in 2024

Now, when you’re this good, the money follows.

In 2024, Ohtani’s net worth is pegged around $50 million, and honestly, it’s only going up.

Here’s why:

  • Contract: He signed a massive 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers in December 2023.
    This is the biggest contract in sports history.
  • Salary for 2024: It’s set at $2 million, with most of the money coming later.
    Think long-term strategy here—he’s got a financial plan that’ll pay off for decades.
  • Endorsements: This guy’s a brand magnet.
    From Seiko to Oakley, he’s pulling in $40 to $50 million a year just from partnerships.

It’s clear: Ohtani’s not just a baseball player, he’s a global brand.

His ability to excel on the field and charm off of it makes him marketable in ways few athletes ever achieve.

Shohei Ohtani: The Phenomenon Continues to Amaze
Shohei Ohtani: The Phenomenon Continues to Amaze

His 2024 Home Runs

Did I mention Ohtani hit 54 home runs this season?

That’s a career high and part of why he’s now a member of the 50-50 club.

That’s right—he’s the first player ever to hit 50 homers and swipe 50 bases in a single season.

Think about that for a second.

We’ve seen home run kings, and we’ve seen base stealers, but rarely do they exist in the same player.

His Pitching in 2024

Now, you might be wondering, “What about his pitching?”

Well, Ohtani’s 2024 season didn’t include any time on the mound.

After undergoing Tommy John surgery in September 2023, the Dodgers have been cautious with his recovery.

  • Rehab Progress: He’s been throwing in bullpen sessions, but it’s clear they’re saving his arm for 2025.

Even without pitching, Ohtani’s value hasn’t dipped one bit.

His bat did all the talking this season, and honestly, it was more than enough.

Batting Average in 2024

At the end of 2024, Ohtani’s batting average sits at a cool .301.

With 185 hits and 53 home runs, he’s proven he’s not just swinging for the fences—he’s a contact hitter too.

It’s this kind of balance that makes him so dangerous at the plate.

“Ohtani’s appeal goes beyond the field,” said marketing expert Sarah Jenkins. “His cross-cultural impact and unique talent make him a brand magnet.” (Source: Forbes)

Shohei Ohtani’s Family

Shohei Ohtani has a supportive family:

  • Parents: Toru and Kayoko Otani
  • Siblings: Ryuta and Yuka Otani

His dad, Toru, played amateur baseball, and his mom, Kayoko, was a national-level badminton player.

His brother, Ryuta, plays amateur baseball, and his sister, Yuka, is a nurse.

Shohei Ohtani’s Personal Life: Who is His Girlfriend?

Shohei Ohtani is now married. On February 29, 2024, he announced his marriage to a Japanese woman via Instagram.

While details about his wife are kept private, this marks a new chapter in Ohtani’s personal life.

To Conclude

Shohei Ohtani continues to captivate baseball fans with his incredible talent and versatility.

From his record-breaking performances to his significant off-field earnings, Ohtani’s journey is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable athlete as he continues to make history in Major League Baseball.

FAQs

What position does Shohei Ohtani play?

Shohei Ohtani is a rare two-way player. He’s both a pitcher and designated hitter, excelling in both roles for his team.

How old is Shohei Ohtani?

Shohei Ohtani is 29 years old. He was born on July 5, 1994, in Oshu, Japan.

What is Shohei Ohtani’s jersey number?

Ohtani wears jersey number 17 for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He’s kept this number throughout his MLB career.

What are Shohei Ohtani’s height and weight?

Shohei Ohtani stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 210 pounds. His size helps him as both a pitcher and hitter.

What is Shohei Ohtani’s ethnicity?

Shohei Ohtani is Japanese. He was born and raised in Japan before coming to play in Major League Baseball.

Rafael Antonio is a dedicated sports journalist at Viz Times with over four years of experience. His journey into the world of sports began at age ten when Tiger Woods won the 2006 PGA Tournament, sparking his passion for golf. With a Master's degree in Journalism, Rafael excels in analyzing and reporting on sports. He covers the NFL, MLB, NHL, WNBA, NASCAR, MMA, and more. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and reading.