A historic third MVP win
Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese superstar and Los Angeles Dodgers standout, has made history again by winning his third Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, his first in the National League. Ohtani had previously won two MVPs in the American League during his time with the Los Angeles Angels in 2021 and 2023.
Celebrations across Japan
Ohtani’s latest achievement triggered the release of special one-page newspaper editions, known as gogai, in Japan. Distributed early Friday morning in Tokyo, these collector’s items prominently featured “MVP” in bold letters alongside images of Ohtani in Dodgers blue.
Revered at home and abroad
Fans in Japan celebrated Ohtani’s ongoing success. Yoshio Inoue, a student picking up his copy of the special edition, remarked, “Every year Ohtani sets records that no one else can break.” Yuko Shimamoto, another admirer, expressed pride, saying, “I’m very happy to have him representing Japan in MLB.”
Boosting Japanese traditions
The gogai tradition, which marks significant events, has found renewed relevance thanks to Ohtani’s accomplishments. While newspaper readership in Japan has declined, it remains stronger than in many countries, and Ohtani’s achievements are helping sustain interest.
Unanimous MVP victory
Ohtani secured all 30 first-place votes, earning 420 points. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor placed second with 263 points, and Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte came third with 229 points.
A World Series champion
Ohtani’s MVP win comes just weeks after leading the Dodgers to a World Series victory, further cementing his status as a baseball icon. The combination of his pitching and hitting excellence continues to redefine what is possible in professional baseball, inspiring fans worldwide and reinforcing his legendary status in Japan.
