Shohei Ohtani made a return to Angel Stadium on Tuesday, but this time as a visitor with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani, who left the Angels as a free agent last winter after six seasons with the struggling team, is now part of the best team in the majors. While the Angels are facing another disappointing season, Ohtani is gearing up for his MLB postseason debut with the Dodgers.
Despite the lack of an in-game tribute by the Angels, Ohtani was acknowledged with a video highlighting his achievements, including two AL MVP awards, as he stepped up to bat. The crowd, with a significant number of Dodgers fans, welcomed Ohtani with cheers as he took the field. In the third inning, Ohtani hit a triple and scored on a single by Mookie Betts, taking the Dodgers into the lead.
Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers has proven successful, with the two-way star leading the National League with 44 home runs and showcasing his talent on both offense and defense. The Dodgers are benefitting from Ohtani’s skills and his presence on a team with a strong winning tradition, while the Angels are facing another losing season, marking their ninth consecutive losing season and 10th year without a playoff appearance.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes Ohtani’s transition to the Dodgers has been seamless, both personally and professionally. While Ohtani remains focused on his performance, fans were eager to witness his return to Angel Stadium, where he spent six years captivating audiences. Angels manager Ron Washington expressed admiration for Ohtani’s abilities and hoped his team could contain Ohtani on the field.
Ohtani’s return to Angel Stadium symbolizes a significant moment for fans and players alike, as they witness the former Angel now excelling with a new team in the MLB.
