Oct 2, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) is greeted in the dugout after scoring a run during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Texas Rangers at Los Angeles Angels
Los Angeles Angels’ Shohei Ohtani posted on Instagram that he would like to participate in the 2023 World Baseball Classic for Team Japan.
After thanking fans for supporting him this year, Ohtani took the time to announce his desire to play for Japan.
“I have officially informed Team Japan Manager Mr. Kuriyama that I would like to participate in next year’s WBC. Looking forward for the opportunity to face the best players around the world and to be able to play in front of the Japanese fans for the first time in over 5 years!!”
Ohtani missed the 2017 WBC with an ankle injury. He is poised to play a big role for Team Japan if he stays healthy for March.
The 28-year old dual-threat featured in the 2012 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup and the 2015 WBSC Premier12 for Japan, including being named the 2015 WBSC Baseball Player of the Year.
The 2021 AL MVP had another big season for the Angels, finishing with a 2.33 ERA and an .875 OPS, MVP like numbers. However, he did it in the same year that Aaron Judge led the AL in runs, RBIs, and set the AL home run record. Judge is currently favorite to win, but there is a chance that the race could be closer than we expect. All eyes will be on the race between the two greats in the American League. The AL and NL MVP are set to be announced tonight, November 17, at 6 PM EST.
The World Baseball classic will start on March 8, 2023. Games will be held in Miami, Phoenix, Taichung, and Tokyo.
