(Mitsuru Tanaka: Associate Professor, Faculty of Sports Management, Shobi University)
Shohei Ohtani of the US Major League Baseball Dodgers was named league MVP for the second consecutive year and third time. He is only the second player in history to win the award in both leagues, and the first time in major league history that a designated hitter (DH) has won the award.
So far, there has been a trend of underappreciating DHs who can’t play defence. However, Otani opened new doors with his outstanding batting performance, becoming the first player in history to achieve the “50-50” (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a season) and win the double crown of home runs and RBIs.
The National League introduced the DH system in 2022, and behind this achievement is the attitude of the major leagues who are not afraid of change. While there are positive comments from the Japanese baseball world about bringing the DH into Central, it’s not a bad idea to use Ohtani’s “MVP effect” as a starting point for the discussion.
According to reports, in a conference call after receiving the award, Otani expressed his feelings about being selected as MVP for the second year in a row by a unanimous vote.
This season, Otani is restricted from being a pitcher due to the effects of his second career surgery on his right elbow in September 2023. As a DH and full-time batter, he recorded good results with 54 home runs, 130 RBI, a batting average of . 31, and 59 stolen bases.
30 reporters affiliated with the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA) will determine the MVP by real-name voting. In recent years, the selection has tended to emphasize “WAR,” a win-enhancing index that comprehensively evaluates batting, defence, baserunning and pitching.
Although pitchers and batters can be compared, the contribution of defence is not reflected in DHs who are batters and do not play defence. However, Otani’s numbers stood out.
According to calculations by data site “Fan Graphs” reported by Jiji Press, Otani’s WAR tops the league at an impressive 9.1. This was much higher than other candidates such as Francisco Lindor of the Mets, who has a high rating as a shortstop, at 7.8.
“First, what I want to do is pitch and continue to be active on the offensive end. I think that’s my job, but it was decided that I wouldn’t be able to do that (this season). , Since it’s my first year, I wanted to do well enough to make up for it.
– How has Shohei Ohtani’s success as a designated hitter changed perceptions in Major League Baseball?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Mitsuru Tanaka, Associate Professor at Shobi University
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Professor Tanaka. It’s an exciting time in Major League Baseball, especially with Shohei Ohtani being named MVP for the second consecutive year. What are your initial thoughts on his historic achievement?
Mitsuru Tanaka: Thank you for having me! Shohei Ohtani’s accomplishment is monumental, not just for him personally, but for baseball as a whole. Being named MVP for the third time and being the first designated hitter to win the award speaks volumes about his exceptional talent and the evolution of the game. It demonstrates how things can change when a player breaks traditional molds.
Time.news Editor: Ohtani is indeed a game-changer. He’s notable for being the first player to achieve the “50-50,” with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. How significant do you think this specific achievement is for the sport?
Mitsuru Tanaka: The “50-50” achievement is a rare feat that emphasizes Ohtani’s versatility and athleticism. This is something we haven’t seen before in MLB, and it sets a new benchmark for future players. It may inspire a new generation of athletes to develop both their pitching and batting skills, which is something we haven’t seen emphasized in modern baseball.
Time.news Editor: While we’re on the topic of the designated hitter, how has the perception of this position changed, particularly in light of Ohtani’s success?
Mitsuru Tanaka: Historically, designated hitters have been undervalued, as they were often seen as players who couldn’t contribute defensively. However, Ohtani’s success challenges that notion. His ability to dominate as both a hitter and a pitcher showcases that the designated hitter role can be integral to a team’s success. His achievements may very well encourage a broader appreciation for how DHs can impact games.
Time.news Editor: Interesting perspective! You mentioned the change in how the Major Leagues are willing to adapt, especially since the National League introduced the DH system in 2022. How important is this change for the future of baseball?
Mitsuru Tanaka: The introduction of the DH system in the National League reflects a willingness to evolve, which is essential for the sport’s growth. It allows teams to maximize talent and strategic options. The flexibility of allowing dual-threat players like Ohtani can lead to more exciting gameplay, and I believe this change can attract a younger audience, which is crucial for the sport’s longevity.
Time.news Editor: As someone who studies sports management, what do you think other leagues could learn from Ohtani’s approach and the changes in Major League Baseball?
Mitsuru Tanaka: Ohtani embodies the spirit of innovation in sports. Other leagues could learn to embrace versatility and celebrate players who can excel in multiple roles. It could lead to more dynamic play styles and increase player engagement. Moreover, leagues should not shy away from making bold changes that could improve the game and attract fans.
Time.news Editor: how do you foresee Ohtani’s legacy evolving over the coming years in terms of influence on future players, especially in Japan and globally?
Mitsuru Tanaka: Ohtani is already seen as a role model and a source of inspiration, particularly among young players in Japan. His success could lead to a new trend of two-way players, and we may see more athletes striving to develop their skills in both pitching and hitting. Globally, Ohtani has the potential to forge connections between baseball cultures, inspiring players from various countries to push boundaries and redefine their capabilities. His legacy will likely be one of transformation and inspiration for generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Professor Tanaka, thank you for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that Shohei Ohtani’s impact on baseball will be felt for years to come, both in Japan and around the world.
Mitsuru Tanaka: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss the future of baseball, especially with such an influential figure leading the charge!