Shohei Ohtani thanks LA Dodgers for “special year” following 2024 NL MVP award

Shohei Ohtani was once again named as a unanimous MVP as he claimed all 30 first-place votes in the NL MVP race.

Shohei Ohtani thanks LA Dodgers for “special year” following 2024 NL MVP award

Shohei Ohtani (Image via Imago)

After penning down a massive 10-year $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December 2023, all eyes were on Shohei Ohtani. The Japanese star had another memorable campaign which saw him being named as the National League MVP. He would thank his team for a “special year” after winning this award.

Ohtani played as a designated hitter (DH) only in this first season with the Dodgers. Due to an elbow surgery, he did not throw a single pitch last year.

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The 30-year-old went on to script more history in the 2024 season. He founded the 50-50 club as he became the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases. He ended the year with 54 home runs and 58 stolen bases.

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In the postseason, Ohtani hit 3 home runs, and had 10 RBI while hitting at an average of .230. As the Los Angeles Dodgers went on to win the World Series, Ohtani received his first World Series Championship ring.

He was later named the Edgar Martinez Outstanding DH of the Year, a Silver Slugger, and the NL Hank Aaron Award winner. Ohtani eventually picked up this third MVP honor, his second straight unanimous after he was named as the 2023 AL MVP.

Though he was unable to attend the event, he had a surprise for the fans. He delivered the award acceptance speech through a recorded message in English.

I would like to thank the BBWAA for this special NL MVP award. This year was a very special year in so many ways and there are a lot of people to thank. I would like to start off by thanking the entire Los Angeles Dodgers organization for the opportunity they gave me to play for this historical franchise.

Shohei Ohtani said

He would dedicate this award to many people including his wife Mamiko Tanaka and the city of Los Angeles as they continue to suffer from the devasting wildfires. The two-way star had recently donated around $500,000 as relief for the victims of the fire.

Mookie Betts gives hilarious advice to Shohei Ohtani after surprise visit to Japan

During the ongoing offseason, Mookie Betts made a surprise visit to Japan. After arriving in the home country of his Los Angeles Dodgers teammate, Shohei Ohtani, he offered him a hilarious advice for the upcoming future.

Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts
Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts (Image via X)

It was recently revealed that Ohtani and his wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting their first child this year. Speaking on this, Betts offered some tips to the soon-to-be father Ohtani.

He should get his sleep now. Because when the baby comes he won’t get any.

Mookie Betts said as per Associated Press

Betts is obviously speaking this from the experience he has. He and his wife, Brianna Hammonds, have two children together – one daughter (born 2018) and one son (born 2023).

The American international also spoke regarding the stardom of Ohtani in his native land. The outfielder claimed that he was treated like a “God” in Japan.

He’s like a God. When he walks, people stop to take pictures and stare at him. That’s really cool and it’s really important that he’s in the clubhouse.

Mookie Betts said

The upcoming season will be a big one for the Dodgers. Following their recent signings, many are expecting them to go back-to-back and claim another World Series crown. With Shohei Ohtani set to pitch as well, the Dodgers at the moment are the heavy favorites for the championship in 2025.