Challenges Faced by Shohei Ohtani: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Shohei Ohtani. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Shohei Ohtani, nicknamed "Shotime", is a Japanese professional baseball player currently with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He excels as both a designated hitter and a pitcher, a rare two-way talent. He previously played for the Los Angeles Angels in MLB and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Ohtani's exceptional performance in both roles has led to his prime seasons being considered among the best in baseball history, drawing comparisons to Babe Ruth.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2016: Ohtani injures his ankle during Japan Series.

In 2016, Ohtani suffered an ankle injury during the Japan Series. This injury would later cost him an opportunity to play in the 2017 World Baseball Classic.

2017: Withdrawal from the World Baseball Classic due to an ankle injury

In 2017, Ohtani was on Japan's 28-man roster for the World Baseball Classic but was forced to withdraw due to an ankle injury.

2019: Injury-Plagued Season

In 2019, Shohei Ohtani experienced an injury-plagued season, which impacted his performance and availability on the field.

2020: Another Injury-Plagued Season

In 2020, Shohei Ohtani continued to face challenges as he experienced another season marked by injuries, affecting his ability to contribute consistently.

November 2022: FTX files for bankruptcy

In November 2022, FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange Ohtani was a global ambassador for, filed for bankruptcy, wiping out billions of dollars in customer funds.

April 2023: Motion to Dismiss from FTX Lawsuit

In April 2023, Ohtani's lawyers filed for his dismissal from the FTX lawsuit.

September 2023: Ohtani's Elbow Injury and Surgery in September 2023

Due to his elbow injury and consequent surgery in September 2023, Ohtani and the Dodgers announced that he would not pitch in the 2024 season.

September 19, 2023: Ohtani Undergoes Elbow Surgery

On September 19, 2023, Shohei Ohtani underwent elbow surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache to address the UCL tear in his right elbow.

March 2024: Gambling Scandal Investigation

In March 2024, an ESPN investigation uncovered $4.5 million in wire payments from Ohtani's bank account to a Southern California bookmaking operation under federal investigation, leading to the firing of his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. Ohtani denied any involvement in sports betting.

May 9, 2024: Development of Scripted Series Announced

On May 9, 2024, Lionsgate Television announced the development of a scripted series based on the interpreter gambling scandal.

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2024: Signed with Dodgers

After the 2023 season, Shohei Ohtani signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, which was the largest contract in professional sports history at the time. Unable to pitch in 2024 due to an elbow injury, Ohtani played as a designated hitter (DH) for the Dodgers. He also achieved the milestone of being the first player in MLB history to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a season, and he was unanimously named the 2024 National League MVP. He also won the 2024 World Series.

2024: Ohtani to Miss Pitching in 2024

On August 23, 2023, it was revealed that Ohtani would not pitch for the rest of the 2023 season and the 2024 season after suffering a ulnar collateral ligament tear in his right elbow.