Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani issued a statement about online abuse he has received following Team Japan’s WBC exit.
“Personally, I don’t really mind being told that sort of thing,” Ohtani said. “However, when it comes to denying someone’s character or that kind of stuff, it’s completely unrelated to baseball, so I do think it’s tough. As a pro, when the results are bad, I have the mindset to accept whatever is said about me personally. But not every player is necessarily that way, and treating people with consideration is something that doesn’t change no matter where you are. So, I think it depends on that.”
Ohtani and Team Japan lost in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals against Team Venezuela, who beat Team USA in the championship game to win their first WBC title.
The reigning MVP had a fantastic tournament, hitting three home runs and tallying seven RBIs across four games. He had a 1.842 OPS during the tournament, which was the most of any player with 10 or more plate appearances.
After Team Venezuela eliminated Team Japan, Ohtani accepted responsibility for the loss on his Instagram.
“Thank you fans for your support,” a translated version of Ohtani’s post read. “Your cheers had our backs every day. I didn’t get the results I wanted, and I feel my insignificance.
“Players, managers, coaches and all staff who supported the team. I am very grateful for the experience of playing baseball with you as a Japanese representative, even though it was only a short period of time.
Thank you so much sir.”
“We would also like to thank all the players from different countries and fans who played from the first round.
“And congratulations to Venezuela for winning.”
Will This Impact Shohei Ohtani’s Season Negatively?
While the mental toll online abuse takes on players is significant, Ohtani showed Wednesday words didn’t affect him.
He made his first start of 2026 against the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, and had an amazing performance. Ohtani pitched 4.1 innings and kept his opponents scoreless, allowing just one hit and striking out four.
The four-time MVP didn’t bat in the game, but will step up to the plate against the San Diego Padres in the Dodgers’ game on Friday.
