Shohei Ohtani: Japan’s WBC win the best moment of my life

March 21, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Japan relief pitcher Shohei Ohtani (16) celebrates after defeating the USA at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Shohei Ohtani described Japan’s victory over the United States in the final of the World Baseball Classic (WBC) as the best moment of his life and said he is already focused on the next edition of the global exhibition in 2026.

Ohtani beat Mike Trout, the USA captain and his Los Angeles Angels teammates, to seal a thrilling 3-2 victory as Japan won its third WBC title on Tuesday.

“This is the best moment of my life,” Ohtani, 28, told reporters. “Just because we won today doesn’t mean we got the last goal, it’s just a passing point. Our team is just starting, so I think we have to prepare for the future.

“I think the next (WBC) is three years from now, I have to maintain the same level and hopefully become a better player… I’m happy to go back.

“I have seen Japan win and I just want to be a part of it. I really appreciate that I can have this great experience. The next generation, the kids, I hope that they like to play baseball. That will make me glad.

March 21, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; The Japanese team celebrates after winning the game against the USA at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Ohtani, who was named the WBC Most Valuable Player, gave a fiery speech to his teammates before the game, telling them not to be in awe of the star-studded U.S. team.

“Just looking at a good lineup … obviously, we have respect, but at the same time, it feels like we’re beatable,” Ohtani added.

“So forget about that feeling, we’re the same, we just have to beat it – I just want to bring that feeling between us.

“It really proves that Japanese baseball can beat any team in the world.”

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