LeBron James applauds Shohei Ohtani’s “unreal” performance

Garance Limouzy September 20, 2024

In a night that will be etched in baseball history, Shohei Ohtani showcased a performance for the ages, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball (MLB) to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. “This guy is unreal!!!!” wrote LeBron James, adding an enthusiastic “WOWZERS” to his statement.

On 19 September 2024, as the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Miami Marlins with a 20-4 victory, fans erupted in chants of “M-V-P!” as Ohtani reached this historic milestone, solidifying his status as a global sports icon.

THIS GUY IS UNREAL!!!! WOWZERS 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 https://t.co/2IyMP8xf7A
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 20, 2024

Ohtani’s dominant display included three home runs and two stolen bases, elevating his season totals to 51 homers and 51 steals. His performance — hitting 6 for 6 with 10 RBIs — has drawn comparisons to the legends of the game. Dodgers shortstop Miguel Rojas encapsulated the moment, stating, “I almost cried, to be honest. It was a lot of emotions.”

Gambling controvery

However, earlier this year, Ohtani’s impressive career was marred by a gambling scandal involving his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. Reports surfaced detailing accusations against Mizuhara for alleged embezzlement and connections to illegal gambling activities, prompting an investigation by Major League Baseball (MLB). Ohtani expressed his shock and sadness, alleging that he had no prior knowledge of Mizuhara’s financial misconduct or gambling issues.

“I never bet on baseball or any other sports, or asked somebody to do it on my behalf,” Ohtani firmly argued. The controversy sharpened focus on gambling practices in the world of baseball.

Despite these challenges, Ohtani’s remarkable achievements continue to captivate fans around the world. His $700 million contract with the Dodgers, signed last December, reflects not only his extraordinary skill but also the immense pressure that comes with such a spotlight.