Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Make WBC History in Team Japan’s Opener
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Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is over in Tokyo for the World Baseball Classic, helping his home country of Japan defend its title.
Team Samurai Japan played Chinese Taipei in their first pool-play game, hosting the team at the Tokyo Dome.
During the game, Ohtani went off in the first two innings, hitting a hard-hit double during the first inning in the opening at-bat.
Then, Ohtani stretched his stuff during the second inning, hitting a grand slam to put Japan on the board, starting an offensive onslaught that led to him coming back up in the order and hitting a two-out RBI single.
With Ohtani driving in five runs in the second inning in total, Ohtani became the first player to do so in an inning throughout the history of the WBC, per Sarah Langs.
Despite his efforts, Ohtani did not complete the cycle with a triple, but it was still a great offensive showcase for the Japanese star.
“It was a good game and we got off to a good start, so I think it was all because of your support,” he said.
“I think the battles will continue, but if the fans and the team can come together and cheer it will encourage us. So please support us.”
Japan will play against Korea on Saturday morning, with Ohtani clashing with teammate Hyeseong Kim.
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