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“Just Ridiculous”: Shohei Ohtani Drops Fans’ Jaws by Breaking a Personal Record During World Baseball Classic Quarterfinal Showdown

Published 03/17/2023, 8:51 AM EDT

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The two-way phenomenon, Shohei Ohtani, is at it again. Just when a person thinks he couldn’t possibly get any better, the Japanese star continues to prove everyone wrong. Ohtani has given a solid performance in the World Baseball Classic so far. Adding him to the already strong team of Japan has done wonders for their victory. Moreover, in the recent match-up between the island country and Italy, Ohtani broke yet another personal record.

For an avid follower of baseball, it seems like the 28-year-old breaks and sets new records on a daily basis. While that may not technically be true, Ohtani is certainly one of the best players the world has ever seen. Fans are witnessing history being made, something the future generations will probably look back on. Sho-time – the one who couldn’t be defeated.

Shohei Ohtani pitches the fastest ball of his career

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It was only the top of the second inning and Ohtani was already on fire. He pitched a fastball at 102 mph, tracked by Statcast, against Italy’s Vinnie Pasquantino. The speed surpassed his previous career high at 101.4 mph, a record that was set in September 2022 in a game against the Astros.

This sheer display of power left many in disbelief. Moreover, the fans of the player cannot hold their excitement.

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One fan thought it wouldn’t be fair to the other teams to have to fight Ohtani in the finals if Japan made it!

Although some think this powerful pitching could lead to an injury, most fans are thrilled.

Ohtani is only 28 years old and already a much-talked-about name. The Angels player is well on his way to a Hall of Fame-worthy career.

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What’s next for Japan in the World Baseball Classic?

The team will face either Mexico or Puerto Rico on Monday in Miami for the semi-final. If they win, they will face either Cuba, Venezuela, or the United States. All three are strong contenders for the final championship, even though America’s performance has left fans wanting more. If Japan ultimately faces them, Ohtani will fight against his Angels’ teammate and friend Mike Trout.

READ MORE – Shohei Ohtani Makes MLB History Yet Again Amid World Baseball Classic Heroics

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Japan is the only country that has made it to the semifinals of all five WBCs held so far. It’s also the only nation to win multiple championships. And this year, with perhaps the best pro baseballer on their roster, Japan may score yet another victory.

WATCH THIS STORY: Japanese Two-Way Baseball Star Shohei Ohtani Hits 100th Major League Homer

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Written by:

Arunima Bhanot

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Arunima Bhanot is an MLB writer at EssentiallySports. Having earned an English literature degree from Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi, Arunima has always been interested in writing. She's a fan of archery and was the captain of her college team for two years running. She's an avid reader who also loves photography and travel, and you can find her talking constantly about books and anime on her Instagram!
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra