No player in recent memory carried the same expectations and anticipation as the arrival of Shohei Ohtani on the shores of America. While Japan had exported some great players, none had been heralded as another Babe Ruth. For like the Babe, Ohtani is both a great pitcher and hitter. The Japanese phenom selected the Los Angeles Angels, in part due to the presence of Mike Trout, Albert Pujols and Mike Scioscia and the large population of Japanese-Americans in Southern California. Ohtani has not disappointed as he continues to dominate at the plate and on the mound.
Offered here is an Official Major League Allan H. Selig baseball that was signed by Ohtani before his historic signing with the Los Angeles Angels. Signed in bold blue pen on the side panel and Ohtani has inscribed his number he wore in Japan – “11”.