TOKYO — The World Series trophy is making its way to Los Angeles, but the celebration is vibrant in Japan as well.

On Thursday morning, crowds gathered at local train stations in Tokyo, as special newspaper editions rolled off the presses, honoring Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto for their roles in leading the Dodgers to victory against the New York Yankees in a dramatic Game 5 showdown.

This practice of distributing special newspapers is a longstanding Tokyo tradition that marks significant achievements. This particular win holds immense importance for a nation that historically encountered skepticism regarding its players, who were often perceived as undersized or primarily skilled as pitchers. Today, there is a sense of pride in knowing that Japanese athletes shine among the best in the sport.

Japan’s triumph in the World Baseball Classic last year in Miami, where they overcame the United States in the final, further emphasizes the country’s growing dominance in baseball.

The victory also resonates deeply with Ohtani’s hometown of Oshu City, located in northern Japan, where supporters have assembled throughout the week in hopes of seeing their beloved superstar clinch the title for the Dodgers.

Overall, this win not only marks a significant milestone for the players involved but also solidifies Japan’s esteemed position in the world of baseball.