The Dodgers formally introduced two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani on Thursday in front of a frenzy of media members. It was a day that was long overdue, but in a way, it made it special.

This was the first time that Ohtani spoke to the media since August, so not many knew what to expect. But he answered some questions surrounding his free agency and his goals for his time with the Dodgers.

President of the T.I.E. Sports Corporation Koji Sasada told Dodgers Insider that every television station in Japan was broadcasting the press conference. This shows how much of an event it was in Japan.

“Every TV station in Japan is broadcasting this right now. Everyone is watching this. It’s so great, we’re so excited,” Sasada said.

It’s been reported that the introductory press conference for Ohtani drew 70 million viewers. An introductory press conference!

The past World Series averaged 9.1M viewers per game over 5 games ~ 45.5M viewers total

Todays @Dodgers press conference introducing Shohei Ohtani drew 70M via @DustyBakerTV

Think about that. #LetsGoDodgers pic.twitter.com/qJb1rD7qFa

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) December 15, 2023

 

This is the Ohtani effect in full swing and one of the main reasons that the Dodgers were willing to give him the record-setting contract. Ohtani is his own brand alone, and he will more than make up his contract over the next 10 years.

The type of viewership that will come from Ohtani joining the Dodgers will not only help L.A. but also the sport of baseball. He is the biggest draw in the game, and quite possibly, in the sports world right now. Kyodo News reporter Skiyuki Shiraishi told Dodgers Insider that Ohtani is the “No. 1 superstar in Japan.”

“He’s huge. Even people who don’t like baseball know who Shohei is. He’s the No. 1 superstar in Japan,” Shiraishi said.