“`html
In the sprawling expanse of Dodger Stadium’s center field plaza, a large contingent of journalists was at the ready, waiting for a signal.
Once it was given, a rush ensued, with reporters and photographers racing past security, determined to reach Ohtani first.
The scene was reminiscent of the fervor surrounding the Beatles during their 1966 concert at Dodger Stadium, minus the shrieking fans.
“That’s how it feels every time he walks into the clubhouse,” remarked Dodgers reliever Brent Honeywell with a chuckle.
The excitement on Thursday was just a precursor to the anticipation surrounding the Dodgers and the New York Yankees as they geared up for the World Series opening game on Friday night.
“It genuinely feels like it has finally come,” Ohtani conveyed through an interpreter.
He could very well have been referring to his own experience.
“I’ve been watching the World Series each year, feeling a sense of disappointment because I couldn’t be a part of one,” Ohtani reflected on his previous six unsuccessful seasons with the Los Angeles Angels before signing a staggering $700 million contract with the Dodgers last offseason.
“But this year, I’m able to participate, and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Surprisingly composed amid the chaos of cameras and jostling media, Ohtani placed his arms on the table, fingers interlocked, and wore a gentle smile that lent him an air of youthful charm.
“He never falters,” noted Honeywell, who wore a t-shirt celebrating Ohtani’s remarkable season of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases.
“He is exactly as he is portrayed.”
Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus, who managed Ohtani during the 2019 season with the Angels, recognized his extraordinary talent.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he achieves a 60-home run, 60-stolen base season along with 20 wins next year,” Ausmus asserted passionately.
“This guy is the best player in the history of baseball, and no one is even close.”
This postseason, Ohtani has hit three home runs without any stolen bases, a contrast to his remarkable regular season stats of 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases.
He holds a batting average of .286 with 10 RBIs and has performed impressively with a 6-for-9 record in clutch situations.
“He’s like a unicorn,” remarked Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr.
“But we have our own standout.”
That standout is Aaron Judge, another elite slugger who, along with Ohtani, is considered one of the top home run hitters in the league.
They exchanged compliments, albeit out of earshot from one another.
When informed that Judge labeled him as the best player in baseball, Ohtani humbly replied, “I’m honored that he views me that way. He is also one of the best players in the league.”
Judge praised Ohtani’s multifaceted skill set, stating, “He can challenge you in so many ways, hitting for both power and average; it’s a tough match-up.”
Yankees outfielder Juan Soto is particularly impressed with Ohtani’s unwavering consistency.
“He doesn’t have highs and lows; he continues to improve gradually and achieves his objectives,” Soto observed.
Ohtani’s native Japan is engaged with the playoffs, tuning in to watch both him and $325 million rookie teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto in record numbers.
Ohtani’s parents are expected to be in attendance during the World Series, adding to the significance of the occasion.
Interestingly, he didn’t mention his new wife, Mamiko, who has been less visible during the playoff season.
And what about his dog Decoy?
“If he’s feeling well, yes, he will be here,” Ohtani affirmed about his beloved pet, who has gained popularity this season including featuring on his cleats and bobblehead.
Decoy even participated in a first pitch ceremony with Ohtani’s assistance.
After nearly 20 minutes of responding to questions in English, Ohtani transitioned into addressing queries in Japanese.
Regardless of the language, his objective remains steadfast.
“The moment I long for most is to celebrate a World Series victory together,” he expressed earnestly.
“`