Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese professional baseball player known for playing both as a pitcher and a designated hitter, a rare two-way role in modern baseball.

Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese professional baseball player known for playing both as a pitcher and a designated hitter, a rare two-way role in modern baseball. As of 2026, he plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball and is widely regarded as one of the sport's most accomplished and influential stars.

Early life and career

Ohtani was born in Ōshū, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, in 1994. He entered professional baseball with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball before joining Major League Baseball.

Two-way playing style

Ohtani is notable for combining pitching and hitting at a high level. This two-way ability is uncommon in modern professional baseball and is the defining feature of his career.

Major achievements

His honours include the 2018 American League Rookie of the Year award and multiple MVP awards in MLB. He has also set major statistical milestones, including the 40-40 and 50-50 seasons.

Los Angeles Dodgers era

Ohtani joined the Los Angeles Dodgers after his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels. In his Dodgers period, he continued to produce record-setting offensive seasons and contributed to team success.