LosAngeles – As the stadium lights dimmed and the applause from tens of thousands of spectators died down, Shohei Ohtani, the two-way star of the Los Angeles Dodgers, was still receiving a unique honor: being named to TIME Magazine’s 2021 “100MostInfluentialPeople” list.
The moment was not only a recognition of his extraordinary ability on the field, but also a testament to his influence beyond the realm of baseball, touching pop culture, global sports, and inspiring a new generation.
Ohtani, who hails from Japan, has “hit and pitched” at the highest level: one of the few modern players who can be both a starting pitcher and a star hitter. In a TIME article written by former star Alex Rodriguez, he was described as:
“If you put all the different abilities of athletes into one person, you get Ohtani.”
And it’s true — his hitting power, running speed, pitching skills, and professional demeanor have captivated the world.
Being included in TIME’s Top 100 list is more than just a personal honor. By many accounts, Ohtani is helping to revive global interest in baseball — from Japan to the U.S., from Europe to Asia.
“I’ve seen dads admit that they went to Ohtani games just because of the name, even though they had no interest in baseball,” one article described.
That spread has made it clear to MLB in particular and to sports in general: an individual can become a global icon—not just because of performance, but also because of image, demeanor, and vision.
When Ohtani made the TIME list, MLB was looking to regain its appeal to a younger, global audience. One article emphasized:
“MLB has a gift, and that gift is called Ohtani.”
And Ohtani has returned the trust with consecutive records: including a 2024 season with more than 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases — something no one in MLB history has ever achieved.
But what is more remarkable is how he uses his platform: from appreciating Japanese fans, to showing humility and professionalism to the media and the team.
After learning of his appearance on the TIME list, Ohtani did not choose a moment to show off. Instead, he told the media and fans:
“I play football for more than just myself. I hope to inspire, to expand the boundaries of the game, to show kids everywhere that limits are just a concept.”
Though brief, the words resonated more powerfully than many home runs.
At a young age compared to many legends, Ohtani is in the process of writing his own story. Making TIME’s Top 100 is just a hinge — a door leading to bigger challenges: how to stay in shape, stay relevant, and become a dominant icon.
And as TIME’s article once emphasized: he is the symbol of “an athlete who not only changed the outcome of a game, but also changed the way we see sports.”
While many stars are only mentioned for their achievements, Shohei Ohtani is recognized for both their achievements and their multi-dimensional influence. His inclusion on TIME’s “100Most Influential People” list is an affirmation that the sports world is witnessing a figure who not only plays the ball — but is creating a new era.
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