An Epochal Open Letter from Shohei Ohtani to Ted Williams and the Entire Dodgers Community…
As I sit here, reflecting on my journey in this game we all love, I find myself humbled by the great legacy of baseball that has shaped not only my career but the entire world of the sport. There are a few moments in life that stand out, not just for their magnitude but for their ability to transform us. This letter, I hope, will serve as one such moment.
I begin by addressing Ted Williams, a man whose name is synonymous with excellence, dedication, and the art of hitting. The respect I have for you is immeasurable. Your commitment to the game, particularly your ability to merge talent and focus, sets a standard that few can truly understand. You did more than play baseball – you shaped it. Your vision for what a hitter could be, your discipline at the plate, and your undeniable greatness in the face of adversity inspire every player who has come after you, including myself.
It is not lost on me that I stand at a unique intersection in baseball history. A player who seeks to not only hit with power but also to pitch at the highest level is rare, and I am aware of the responsibility that comes with it. But as I look to the legends who came before me, like you, Ted, and the countless others who donned the Dodger blue, I realize that baseball is far more than an individual pursuit; it is a continuation of the game and its story. This sport, this beautiful game, has always been about more than personal glory – it is about building something greater than ourselves, something that transcends eras, teams, and borders.
To the entire Dodgers community, I owe a debt of gratitude that is hard to put into words. From the day I arrived in the United States to the countless games I’ve watched in awe of the Dodgers’ storied history, I have been captivated by what this organization represents. It is not just the victories, though they are plenty, but the values that the Dodgers uphold – excellence, resilience, and a deep sense of family. You all have built an environment where greatness is expected, and where every player, whether on the field or in the stands, feels the weight of the legacy you’re carrying.
In particular, I am moved by the history of Japanese players in the Dodgers’ uniform. From the late Hideo Nomo, who broke barriers and opened doors for players like me, to Kenta Maeda, and now the future of players who dream of following in our footsteps, the Dodgers have shown a deep appreciation for the global nature of our game. It is no small feat to represent an entire culture while striving to achieve the highest individual and team success. And yet, the Dodgers have made it clear that they embrace players from all walks of life, all backgrounds, and all countries.
There is something beautiful in the Dodgers’ ability to bring people together, no matter where they come from. This team stands as a symbol not just of baseball excellence, but of unity. In a world where so much can divide us, the game of baseball reminds us that we are more than our differences. We are all part of something larger, something eternal.
As I continue my journey on the diamond, I am aware that I am only a small piece of a much larger puzzle. And as I strive to push the boundaries of what is possible on the field, I do so with a deep respect for those who came before me. Ted, your legacy lives on in every swing of the bat. To the Dodgers community, your dedication to the game has been an inspiration, and I will continue to carry that torch forward, with the hope that one day, I too will leave behind something that stands the test of time.
Thank you for letting me be a part of this remarkable sport, and for all the lessons I continue to learn from you, from the game, and from the fans who make it all so meaningful.
