Ohtani Misses the Awards, Thank you for joining my beautiful wife in the MVP award speech
Jan 26, 2025
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The Los Angeles Dodgers' `Superstar' Ohtani won the National League's unanimous MVP last season, achieving the first 50 home runs and 50 steals in major league history. The two-time American League MVP extended his MVP career to three.
Ohtani was scheduled to participate in a dinner party hosted by the New York branch of the National Baseball Journalists Association (BBWAA) on the 26th (Korea time). The annual off-season BBWAA dinner party is also an official award ceremony where two league MVPs attend to receive trophies and express their feelings.
Ohtani was originally scheduled to attend the meeting, but chose not to attend due to "personal reasons" as human and property damages from massive wildfires continued in the L.A. area where he lives. Ohtani replaced the MVP award speech with a video message.
In this video, Ohtani said "I'm sorry that I can't attend this year's BBWAA Awards dinner. The effects of the L.A. bushfires have made it very difficult for me and my family to attend"I would like to express my condolences to those who have lost their homes and loved families, to all those who have been affected by the fire, to the animals who have lost their homes and died."
"We are also trying to do our best to provide help to those affected by the forest fire," he said.
Ohtani also said, `This season has been a special year in many ways, and I want to thank many people. I want to thank the Los Angeles Dodgers for giving me the opportunity to play on this historic team," he said, thanking the front members.
He also helped the team members, coaching staff, trainers, and clubhouse staff all year round. I also feel the support of the fans every day. I'd like to thank interpreter Will Ayton in particular" he said.
He thanked his agency CAA Sports officials and also delivered a message to his wife, Mamiko Tanaka. Ohtani wants to thank my beautiful wife for always being there for me" expressed his affection.
Lastly, Ohtani said, "I want to dedicate this award to the great efforts of the L.A. City and the firefighters and the L.A. Fire Department on the front lines of the L.A. wildfires. United, we can overcome this disaster," he said in a meaningful greeting.
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
