Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, who was named MVP (Most Valuable Player) in Major League Baseball last season, gave a speech in English at the award ceremony held in New York on the 27th, saying, ``I'm truly honored. I am here because of your constant support,'' he expressed his gratitude to the fans and those involved.
Last season, Ohtani, who was chosen unanimously for the second time in major league history for the first time in major league history, attended the award ceremony held by the National Press Association at a hotel in New York.
After receiving a commemorative plaque at the award ceremony, Otani gave a speech in English in front of approximately 800 fans and officials.
Otani said, ``I'm really honored to receive this award,'' and then said of the Angels, with whom he played until last season, ``Thank you for the past six years. I'm grateful for giving me the opportunity to play.'' I told you.
Looking ahead to this season when he will play for the Dodgers, he said, ``Thank you to everyone at the Dodgers for believing in me. I am looking forward to the next stage of my career.'' It's all thanks to the constant support from Japan that we are able to do so," he said, expressing his gratitude to the fans.
Mr. Otani gave a speech in fluent English for about two minutes while looking at the manuscript at hand, and concluded with words of gratitude to his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, his family, and friends, which drew a big round of applause from the audience. Ta.
In addition to Otani, the ceremony was attended by Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole, who won the Cy Young Award in the American League, and the National League's MVP, Braves' Acuña Jr.
Last season, Otani hit 44 home runs, becoming the home run king, and also won 10 games as a pitcher, becoming the first player in history to achieve double-digit wins and double-digit home runs for two consecutive years.
This season, he is expected to concentrate on batting due to the surgery he underwent on his right elbow last September.
If all goes well, he says he will be able to make it in time for the opening game, and will start the season with camp starting in early February.