Shohei Ohtani’s Last Start Wasn’t In A Dodgers Uniform (Or Angels) But It Was His Most Iconic

As Shohei Ohtani prepares to take the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers , lets look back at the most iconic moment of his career, which might already be slipping from memory.

On a March night in Miami during the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, Ohtani stepped onto the mound in the ninth inning to protect Japans 32 lead over Team USA.

The pressure was enormous the opponent, fittingly, was his Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout.

The two best players in the sport, facing off with the world championship on the line.

Full count.

One pitch to decide it.

Slider.

Swing.

Miss.

Ohtani hurled his glove in the air and let out a roar.

Japan were world champions, and baseball had its global hero.

Yet, this wasnt Ohtanis first rodeo.

Back in 2016, while still with the Nippon-Ham Fighters, Ohtani closed out a crucial playoff game after serving as designated hitter.

His manager back then? Hideki Kuriyama the same one who entrusted him with the WBC title on the line.

History echoed, only this time, the world was watching.

Shohei Ohtanis Forgotten Masterpiece: The Night He Sealed His Global Legacy Across the WBC, Ohtani wasnt just dominant he was transcendent.

He slashed .435/.606/.739 with 10 walks, four doubles, a homer, and eight RBI.

On the mound, he struck out 11 in just 9.2 innings, with a 1.86 ERA.

He led, inspired, and delivered.

In the semifinals against Mexico, he began Japans comeback with a leadoff double on a pitch outside the strike zone, later rallying his teammates with a simple but powerful message: If you admire them, you cant surpass them.

And yet, the performance already feels overlooked a fleeting memory in the daily churn of the MLB season.

But it shouldnt be.

This was the ultimate baseball theater: Japan vs.

the U.S., Trout vs.

Ohtani, a moment worthy of the ages.

It crystallized what makes Ohtani singular not just his skill, but his poise, leadership, and love for the game.

He didnt just represent Japan.

He represented whats possible in baseball.

Now, the sport owes him more.

He belongs on a team that plays every October.

Because if theres one truth the WBC confirmed, its this: Shohei Ohtani was made for the biggest moments.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission..

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