Challenges Faced by Shohei Ohtani: Obstacles and Turning Points

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Shohei Ohtani

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

Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese professional baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, excelling as both a designated hitter and pitcher. Known as "Shotime," he previously played for the Los Angeles Angels in MLB and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). His exceptional two-way abilities have led to comparisons with Babe Ruth and are considered among the greatest in baseball history.

2017: Withdrawal from World Baseball Classic

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

2019: Injury Plagued Season

In 2019, Ohtani experienced an injury-plagued season.

2020: Another Injury Plagued Season

2020 was another season plagued with injuries for Ohtani.

November 2022: FTX files for bankruptcy

In November 2022, FTX filed for bankruptcy.

April 2023: Filed for dismissal from FTX lawsuit

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

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: Mizuhara Gambling Investigation

In March 2024, an ESPN investigation uncovered $4.5 million in wire payments from Shohei Ohtani's bank account to a Southern California bookmaking operation, leading to the firing of Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, and allegations of theft.

February 2025: Mizuhara Sentencing

In February 2025, Ippei Mizuhara was sentenced to repay Shohei Ohtani $17 million along with a 57-month prison sentence.