Los Angeles Dodgers Designated hitter Shohei Ohtani Has Done it Again, making major Announcements, manager Dave Roberts React shock…see more
Los Angeles Dodgers Designated Hitter Shohei Ohtani Has Done It Again, Making Major Announcement — Manager Dave Roberts Reacts in Shock
Los Angeles, CA – May 9, 2025 — In yet another headline-making move, Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani has once again stunned the baseball world — but this time, it wasn’t with a towering home run or a jaw-dropping two-way performance. The 30-year-old designated hitter and global icon made a personal announcement Friday morning that caught fans, teammates, and even his own manager off guard.
During a hastily scheduled press conference at Dodger Stadium, Ohtani, joined by his interpreter Ippei Mizuhara and members of the Dodgers’ front office, addressed the media with an unexpected message that had social media ablaze before the microphones were even turned off.
“After long consideration and deep personal reflection, I’ve decided to begin the process of representing Japan in the 2025 WBSC Premier12 this fall — and I will also be launching my own baseball academy in Los Angeles to train the next generation of international players,” Ohtani announced.
The dual announcement left reporters stunned, especially as the Dodgers are fully in the thick of the MLB season and heavily favored for a postseason run.
Manager Dave Roberts, who was reportedly informed of Ohtani’s decision just 24 hours before the press conference, didn’t hide his surprise.
“It shocked me, honestly,” Roberts said. “You think you’ve seen everything from Shohei, and then he raises the bar again — not just on the field, but in life. Representing his country and launching something this meaningful while still competing at the highest level? It’s incredible. But I’d be lying if I said I saw it coming.”
Ohtani, who is hitting .328 with 13 home runs and 37 RBIs this season, said the decision to join Team Japan for the Premier12 was deeply personal.
“Wearing that jersey means everything to me,” he said. “I’ve always believed that no matter how far I go in Major League Baseball, I have a responsibility to inspire players in Japan and around the world. This is part of that mission.”
The Premier12 tournament, which features the top 12 baseball nations in the world, is scheduled for November — typically the heart of the MLB offseason. Ohtani’s participation, while not interfering with Dodgers postseason duties, signals his ongoing commitment to global baseball — and his desire to lead by example.
Even more surprising was the announcement of his own baseball academy, which will be built in the Los Angeles area and focus on training young athletes from across Asia and the United States.
“This is something I’ve dreamed about for years,” Ohtani explained. “I want to create a space that teaches the fundamentals of baseball and also helps young players grow as people. Talent should never be limited by geography or opportunity.”
According to Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, the organization was caught off guard by the timing but is fully supportive.
“We were surprised, but not concerned,” Friedman said. “Shohei is one of the most dedicated athletes I’ve ever worked with. If he says he can do both — dominate on the field and grow the game globally — I believe him.”
Teammates also responded with admiration. Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts posted on Instagram: “The man never stops. Role model on and off the field. Respect.”
First baseman Freddie Freeman added, “He’s building something bigger than baseball. We’re lucky to witness it.”
While Ohtani made clear that his primary focus remains on helping the Dodgers win a World Series title this year, he said his announcement marks the beginning of what he hopes will be a lasting legacy beyond MLB.
“I know some people may question the timing, but I believe when you have the chance to create something meaningful, you take it. I’m committed to the Dodgers, and I’m committed to making the game better for future generations,” Ohtani said.
As for Roberts, the news might have arrived with some surprise — but not disappointment.
“When you look at the big picture, it’s just Shohei being Shohei,” Roberts said with a smile. “Always thinking bigger. Always pushing the limits. That’s what makes him great.”
As the Dodgers continue their push toward another postseason run, it’s clear that Shohei Ohtani is still rewriting the definition of what it means to be a baseball star — one home run, one tournament, and one visionary step at a time.
