Shohei Ohtani Gives First Comments on Official Dodgers Debut
Big-ticket free-agent Shoehi Ohtani comments on his Dodgers debut.
![[US, Mexico & Canada customers only] March 20, 2024; Seoul, SOUTH KOREA; Los Angeles Dodgers](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_5361,h_3015,x_0,y_0/c_fill,w_1080,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images%2FImagnImages%2Fmmsport%2F195%2F01hse8tr0xp5eq96dt5k.jpg "[US, Mexico & Canada customers only] March 20, 2024; Seoul, SOUTH KOREA; Los Angeles Dodgers")
After months of excitement, the fanbase got to finally see their new-look roster in action. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres kicked off the 2024 MLB season on Mar. 20 with a two-game series that is taking place in Seoul, South Korea.
This was the league's first-ever regular season game in South Korea but it was also Shohei Ohtani's debut with the Dodgers after inking a 10-year, $700 million deal.
The 29-year-old superstar is one of the best players in the league and didn't show any nerves in Tuesday's tilt. Ohtani was asked if he felt nervous and he answered, "I’m not as nervous when I’m hitting as when I’m pitching. So I was able to be relaxed at the plate."
Shohei Ohtani was asked if he felt nervous for his #Dodgers debut. "I’m not as nervous when I’m hitting as when I’m pitching. So I was able to be relaxed at the plate."
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) March 20, 2024
Dodgers News: Shohei Ohtani Was Ready to Roll in Dodgers Debut
It's normal for players to be anxious in their first appearance with a new club but Ohtani was ready to rock and roll.
His ability to be productive at the plate is top-notch. Ohtani has superb plate coverage and pitch recognition skills to be a consistent batter at the dish.
The three-time All-Star went 2 for 5 with two singles and one RBI in his debut on Mar. 20.
He doesn't seem to be overwhelmed or flustered when he's on the diamond and that's a plus. Especially playing in a big market like Los Angeles.
With the addition of Ohtani, the Dodgers are expected to be one of the best teams in the majors. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Los Angeles is a +165 favorite to win the National League. If you like these odds, head over to FanDuel Sportsbook and take advantage of your sign-up bonus.
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