TORONTO – Shohei Ohtani, the illustrious star who chose the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Toronto Blue Jays two years ago, continues to make waves in the world of baseball as he leads his team into the 2024 World Series against the Blue Jays. The highly anticipated Game 1 is set for October 24, marking a historic first-time matchup between the two teams in the championship.
Arriving in style, the Dodgers utilized two aircraft for the journey, signifying the club’s ascent under Ohtani’s influence. This travel arrangement has become standard practice for the Dodgers, helping streamline their logistics during both significant and routine road trips throughout the season.
The stakes are high as the Dodgers aim to become the first team to secure back-to-back World Series titles in 25 years. Ohtani, who received a 10-year, $700 million deal—balanced to allow the Dodgers flexibility under the luxury tax—has already left a significant mark. His stellar performance last season included a remarkable 50-homer, 50-stolen-base achievement and a World Series title win. Additionally, his extraordinary display in Game 4 of the previous National League Championship Series is being lauded as one of the greatest in baseball history.
The drama surrounding Ohtani’s decision to join Los Angeles was palpable, with media frenzy suggesting he had committed to the Blue Jays. Max Muncy, a teammate, recalls initially believing Ohtani was headed to Toronto until he was surprised with the news of Ohtani’s actual signing with the Dodgers.
Now, two years in, Muncy reflects on how significantly Ohtani’s presence has transformed the Dodgers into a global brand, drawing millions of fans to Dodger Stadium and establishing lucrative sponsorships across Japan. Muncy describes the impacts from facility renovations to travel logistics that stem directly from Ohtani’s arrival, stating, “The course of the Dodgers is changed forever.”
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays, who felt the sting of the missed opportunity with Ohtani, have also been evolving. Their commitment to becoming a premier organization is evident with extensive renovations totaling $400 million at their Rogers Centre and an additional $100 million invested in their player development center in Dunedin, Florida. These improvements reflect the team’s ambition to compete at the highest level.
Though Ohtani did not select Toronto, the team remains focused on its current roster, bolstered by homegrown talents like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. Teammate Chris Bassitt acknowledges the difficulty but emphasizes the positive trajectory of the Blue Jays’ season, stating, “Who needs Shohei? We have a megastar in Vladdy.” The team is not allowing the legacy of Ohtani’s decision to overshadow their accomplishments or aspirations.
As the World Series approaches, Ohtani is expected to bat leadoff and pitch in Game 4, looking to add to his impressive tally of 109 home runs since joining the Dodgers. His impact resonates beyond stats, as Muncy highlights Ohtani’s likable personality and love for the game.
With both teams aiming for glory, the presence of Ohtani and the long-standing rivalry between the Dodgers and Blue Jays adds a compelling narrative to this year’s World Series. The unfolding games promise to be a thrilling showcase of talent and passion for baseball. Whether Los Angeles can secure another title or if Toronto can make history by winning is a saga that fans will eagerly follow.