Embracing the Ohtani Effect: Dodgers Adjust to Extra Attention
The Los Angeles Dodgers are no strangers to drawing attention, especially after their aggressive spending during the past winter. However, this offseason is different. The Dodgers now have Shohei Ohtani, a player who transcends his sport in multiple countries, including his home country of Japan. Ohtani’s presence has brought an unprecedented swarm of media attention to the Dodgers’ spring training camp.
Ohtani, who wants to be like everyone else, understands the magnitude of the attention he is receiving. Despite the $700 million attached to his name and the constant presence of Japanese media members, Ohtani is making an effort to introduce himself to his new teammates. This is not an easy task, considering the massive crowd of journalists fighting for a glimpse of the most well-known man in the sport.
The attention on Ohtani has created a different atmosphere at the Dodgers’ camp. Players like Gavin Lux and Walker Buehler, who would typically fly under the radar during spring training, are now being bombarded with questions about their notable new teammate. Even pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who hasn’t thrown a major-league pitch yet, are generating intrigue due to their high-priced acquisitions.
The media demand surrounding Ohtani is nothing new. During his time with the Angels, Ohtani only spoke to the media sporadically. His teammates often had to field questions on his behalf. This dynamic will now be a part of the Dodgers’ acclimation process this spring.
While Ohtani’s speaking schedule may not matter to most fans, it does add an extra layer of responsibility for the players. Clayton Kershaw, the franchise icon, experienced the frenzy firsthand when he returned to camp. The crowd of cameras surrounding him was bigger than even typical postseason standards. Kershaw understands that answering questions about Ohtani and other new teammates is part of the job.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledges that the attention can be a distraction if the load becomes too cumbersome. However, he believes that it is part of the territory when you put on the Dodgers’ uniform. Roberts encourages his players to appreciate the responsibility that comes with the increased media coverage and to understand that expectations will be higher.
Some players, like Jason Heyward, are accustomed to the media demand. Heyward, a respected presence in the clubhouse, understands that speaking to the media is part of his routine. He acknowledges the attention but remains focused on his job. Heyward’s statement reflects the sentiment of many players who understand that the media scrutiny is something they deal with every season.
Overall, the Dodgers have embraced the circus surrounding Ohtani and Yamamoto’s arrival. Players like Buehler see it as an opportunity for the team and individual players to gain more attention and for the game to receive broader coverage. The Dodgers consider themselves fortunate to have this level of media coverage.
In conclusion, the Dodgers’ spring training camp is abuzz with media attention due to the presence of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The players have embraced the extra scrutiny and understand that it comes with the territory of being a Dodger. While it can be a distraction if not managed properly, the team sees it as an opportunity to showcase their talent and promote the game of baseball. The Dodgers are ready to embrace the Ohtani effect and make the most out of this extraordinary offseason.