Founding leader and president emeritus of AADAP (Asian American Drug Abuse Program) in Los Angeles.

(MIKEY HIRANO CULROSS/Rafu Shimpo)Rafu Staff and Wire Service ReportsIn the end.but also of a rare confluence of circumstances that allowed him to defy professional baseballs belief that success as both a pitcher and hitter was impossible.

This is amazing – I wish it was baseball season now so I could see him play.(Photo courtesy Mike Gin)In signing with the Dodgers.despite missing the Angels final 25 games after injuring his right oblique while taking batting practice at Angel Stadium on Sept.

the 29-year-old Ohtani burst onto the American baseball scene in 2018 when he hit 22 home runs in his first year with the Angels while going 4-2 with a 3.To all the fans and everyone involved in the baseball world.

excitement over his new deal spread quickly.

His expected $70 million average yearly salary far outdistances the previous record of $43.The announcement deterred 11 of Japans 12 teams from taking a chance on Ohtani in the draft.

The six years I spent with the Angels will remain etched in my heart forever … And to all Dodgers fans.but will concentrate on being a designated hitter in the 2024 season before returning to pitch again the following year.

Ohtani made it clear that he wanted to win at the very highest level in the sport.23 and undergoing surgery that ended his pitching season.