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 is a Japanese professional baseball player, currently a designated hitter and pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers in MLB. Previously playing for the Los Angeles Angels and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in NPB, Ohtani is known as "Shotime." He is celebrated for his exceptional abilities as both a hitter and a pitcher, a rare feat that designates him as a two-way player. His peak seasons are considered historically significant, earning comparisons to Babe Ruth's early career due to his unparalleled contributions to the sport.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2017: Withdrawal from World Baseball Classic

In 2017, Ohtani was selected for the Japan National Baseball Team of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, but had to withdraw due to an ankle injury.

2019: Injury-Plagued Season

In 2019, Shohei Ohtani experienced an injury-plagued season.

2020: Continued Injuries

In 2020, Shohei Ohtani faced ongoing challenges with injuries.

November 2022: FTX Bankruptcy

In November 2022, FTX filed for bankruptcy, leading to a class-action lawsuit against Ohtani and other spokespeople for promoting unregistered securities.

April 2023: Dismissal Request from FTX Lawsuit

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

August 23, 2023: Ohtani's Season Cut Short by UCL Tear

On August 23, 2023, Shohei Ohtani was removed from his start against the Cincinnati Reds and 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.

September 2023: Ohtani Undergoes Elbow Surgery in September 2023

Because of 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 received elbow surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache to address the UCL tear in his right elbow.

March 2024: Mizuhara Gambling Scandal

In March 2024, an ESPN investigation revealed $4.5 million in wire payments from Ohtani's account to a bookmaking operation, leading to Mizuhara's firing and subsequent investigation. Ohtani denied any involvement in gambling.

May 9, 2024: Scripted Series Announced

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

2024: Ohtani Not to Pitch in 2024

Because of his elbow injury and consequent surgery in September 2023, Ohtani would not pitch in the 2024 season.

February 2025: Mizuhara Sentenced

In February 2025, Mizuhara was sentenced to repay Ohtani $17 million and received a 57-month prison sentence for bank fraud related to the gambling scandal.