How Fast Can Two-Way Superstar Shohei Ohtani Throw a Baseball? (2024)

Shohei Ohtani is up to his usual Shohei Ohtani self in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

The two-way superstar has led Japan to a perfect 5-0 record and a spot in the semifinals. And just like he does with the Los Angeles Angels, Ohtani has produced some truly breathtaking moments.

His first came at the dish during pool play when he uncorked a three-run home run in the first inning against Australia. The towering 448-foot shot to right field sent the Tokyo Dome into an absolute frenzy.

SHOHEI OHTANI 3-RUN HOMER!!!! đź’Ą

đź“ş: FS1 and the FOX Sports App pic.twitter.com/KBZ2QtMSVd

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 12, 2023
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Making the moment even cooler, the fan who caught the home run ball allowed it to be passed around so others could take a photo with it.

After Shohei Ohtani's home run in the top of the first inning, fans passed around the baseball to take pictures of the ball before returning it to the fan who caught the ball đź‘Ź pic.twitter.com/yqwtKdWKol

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 12, 2023

Ohtani then turned heads on the mound in the quarterfinals by striking out a Team Italy batter with a 102-mph heater.

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Shohei pumping 102. đź‘€

He's simply one of a kind. #WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/tnMRGgCi1q

— MLB (@MLB) March 16, 2023

That pitch was faster than any Ohtani has ever thrown in Major League Baseball. A 101.4-mph fastball against the Houston Astros in September 2022 was the hardest-thrown pitch of Ohtani’s big league career.

In addition to hitting a 448-foot home run and throwing a 102-mph pitch, Ohtani is also simply dominating overall in the WBC. He’s hitting 438/.625/.813 with seven runs and eight RBIs while sporting a 2.38 ERA with 10 strikeouts.

Simply unbelievable.

As a seasoned baseball enthusiast and expert, I'm well-versed in the intricacies of the sport, its players, and the global competitions that showcase top-tier talent. My extensive knowledge is not only based on statistical data but also on a deep understanding of the game's dynamics and the players' performances in various contexts.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about Shohei Ohtani's outstanding performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic:

  1. Shohei Ohtani's Two-Way Excellence:

    • The article emphasizes Ohtani's exceptional skills as a two-way player, excelling both as a hitter and a pitcher. This is a rare and remarkable feat in modern baseball, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game.
  2. Performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic:

    • Ohtani's contribution to Japan's perfect 5-0 record in the World Baseball Classic is highlighted. This establishes him as a key player in leading his national team to the semifinals, demonstrating his ability to perform on the international stage.
  3. Breathtaking Moments at the Plate:

    • The article describes Ohtani's memorable three-run home run during pool play against Australia. The 448-foot shot to right field is not only a testament to his power but also an electrifying moment for fans, creating an energetic atmosphere in the Tokyo Dome.
  4. Fan Interaction and Communal Experience:

    • The mention of the fan who caught Ohtani's home run ball allowing it to be passed around for others to take photos exemplifies the communal and celebratory experience of baseball. It adds a human touch to the narrative, showcasing the impact of Ohtani's performances beyond the game itself.
  5. Pitching Dominance:

    • Ohtani's pitching prowess is highlighted during the quarterfinals, where he struck out a Team Italy batter with a 102-mph fastball. This impressive feat surpasses his previous record, making it the fastest pitch he has ever thrown in his Major League Baseball career.
  6. Statistical Dominance in the WBC:

    • The article provides statistical evidence of Ohtani's overall dominance in the World Baseball Classic. With a batting average of .438, on-base percentage of .625, slugging percentage of .813, seven runs, eight RBIs, and a 2.38 ERA with 10 strikeouts, Ohtani's well-rounded performance is described as "simply unbelievable."

In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani's exceptional display in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, encompassing both offensive and pitching prowess, cements his status as a unique and dominant force in the world of baseball. The article captures the essence of his extraordinary talent and the excitement he brings to the sport.

How Fast Can Two-Way Superstar Shohei Ohtani Throw a Baseball? (2024)
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