Shohei Ohtani Says First Year With Dodgers ‘Exceeded Expectations’

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani had an unforgettable season in his first year of 10 with the franchise. When the Dodgers signed Ohtani to a 10-year, $700 million landmark deal, several baseball fans doubted the team would even reach the World Series, let alone win the title.

The Dodgers’ postseason woes felt like a never-ending plague, but the arrival of Ohtani signaled change was imminent. But could one player really carry an entire lineup?

The answer is yes and no. While Ohtani didn’t do everything for the Dodgers in 2024, his presence in the lineup helped propel and encourage other players. This was shown in Game 3 of the World Series after Ohtani sustained a shoulder injury the previous matchup and his availability was in question.

Once Ohtani departed from Game 2 of the World Series, a sense of uncertainty lingered throughout the Dodgers clubhouse as the team prepared to fly to the Bronx that same night. However, Ohtani chose to stay in the lineup for the remainder of the Fall Classic.

“He was very adamant that he was going to play,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I think there was more uncertainty in all of our minds, but in his mind from day one, from Saturday evening, he was going to play.”

Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy also spoke on the importance of Ohtani’s presence in the lineup.

“Well, if you keep the best player in the game in the lineup, that’s usually good for your team,” Muncy said ahead of Game 3. “Having him in there obviously, it’s a big guy to have in there. It helps a lot. He’s had some big moments for us, and we’re obviously expecting a couple more big moments out of him.”

Just a few days later, the Dodgers would become World Series champions in Ohtani’s first season with the team. Just over a month later, Ohtani reflected on his remarkable first season in a Dodgers uniform.

“This exceeded my expectations,” Ohtani told USA TODAY Sports through interpreter Matt Hidaka, looking back at his first season with the Dodgers. “Obviously the first time I made the playoffs. We won the World Series. What more can you ask for?”

Ohtani made the postseason for the first time in his career, and was a part of the last team standing in October. He’s already accomplished his greatest goal in Major League Baseball, and now has nine more years to add to it.

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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