MLB Journeyman Opens Up About Striking Out Shohei Ohtani Twice in Korea

Shohei Ohtani has lived up to his billing in his short time with the Dodgers. He’s put on a spectacle showing off his power, baserunning smarts, and likable personality.

During their trip to South Korea, the Dodgers played the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO, a team that includes some former major league players. Among them: former Texas Ranger and New York Met Ariel Jurado.

Jurado started for the Heroes in the first exhibition game and managed to strike out Ohtani twice on high heaters. When asked about his impressions of Ohtani, Jurado was effusive in his praise.

“I faced him when I was with Texas. He’s great. He’s the best player in the major leagues.”

— Ariel Jurado on Shohei Ohtani, via Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register

Earlier in spring, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts referred to Ohtani as a “free swinger,” as Ohtani does have a higher than average strikeout rate. Still, striking out the two-time American League MVP is no easy feat.

Jurado has had success against Ohtani in the past. In 11 at-bats, Ohtani has only two hits and struck out three times. The right-handed pitcher commented about how he was able to, again, get to Ohtani:

“I think I used the same sequence like when I was in the major leagues – some fastballs up. He swung – thank you for me.”

— Jurado, via Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register

While Ohtani did not have a banner day at the plate, the rest of the team picked him up as the Dodgers thrashed the Heroes 14-3.

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

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