When it comes to Shohei Ohtani, he’s no stranger to having a large contingent of media following him for every game. But MLB All-Star week is totally different. Everyone wanted to speak to Ohtani.
For many media members across baseball, the All-Star Game is a rare opportunity to ask Ohtani questions outside of a series involving the Angels. And let me tell you: Reporters were not about to miss out on a chance to speak to the two-way superstar.
Ohtani participated in media day festivities at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on Monday, and the scene around his desk was absolutely unreal. You almost couldn’t see him in the enormous crowd.
Looks like a few people want to talk to Shohei Ohtani today 🦄👀 pic.twitter.com/NlgEZyuh3E
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 10, 2023
Media Day crowd for Shohei Ohtani… 🤯#AllStar pic.twitter.com/cAURT8eFUP
— MLBPA (@MLBPA) July 10, 2023
Even by Ohtani standards, that crowd was ridiculous. But that was to be expected as he heads into free agency this offseason.
The Angels star is not planning to pitch in the All-Star Game as he’s been dealing with a blister. He also won’t participate in the Home Run Derby. But as the American League’s starting designated hitter, he’ll get some at-bats on Tuesday night.