“Shohei Ohtani (29, LA Angels)’s 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC) pitching career is entirely dependent on the Japanese national team and his own intention. There are no restrictions at all.”
Japanese local media ‘Sankei Sports’ cited an interview with Perry Minassian Angels general manager on the 5th and wrote about Ohtani’s permission to work as a pitcher.
Ohtani will participate in the 2023 WBC with Japan’s national team. Since Ohtani stood out as both a pitcher and a hitter while playing in the major leagues, many people are interested in what position Ohtani will participate in international competitions.
In the meantime, a tug-of-war continued between the club and the Japanese national team over Ohtani’s double job. Clubs tended to refrain from pitching in order to reduce the risk of Ohtani’s injury, while the Japanese national team, on the contrary, wanted to double pitching in order to strengthen their lineup and attract media and fan attention.
Early last month, Japanese national team coach Hideki Kuriyama said in a New Year’s interview with local media, “I’m thinking a lot about Ohtani’s technique. I will discuss and think about what choice I will make (with the Angels). Also, the team should be in the most conducive form to win. After discussing with the club and examining the physical condition in February, we will make a final decision,” he explained the progress.
As the tournament approaches, it seems that the outline of Ohtani’s double career will be revealed to some extent. General manager Minassian revealed that the club has no intention of restricting Ohtani’s double career as a pitcher. 먹튀검증
On the 5th, general manager Minassian met with reporters at an announcement of the team’s uniform and sponsorship and said, “Ohtani will depart for Japan early next month. Before that, I will start for the team once,” he said. “I am not worried at all. He’s already training in Arizona, and gearing up for the season. He’s doing everything that needs to be done,” he said.
He continued, “It is entirely up to the Japanese national team and the person to decide whether to double bat at the WBC. There are no restrictions at all. Currently, Ohtani is pitching from the bullpen and practicing batting.”
Will Ohtani be able to put on a Japanese uniform and start a double career? Many people are listening to the choice of the Angels and the Japanese national team.