For years, fans have marveled at Shohei Ohtani’s once-in-a-generation talent. A two-way superstar who let his game do all the talking. But if you have noticed, something seems to have shifted since his move across town. Now donning Dodger blue, Ohtani isn’t just delivering at the plate. But he’s letting his personality shine in ways we haven’t quite seen before.

Yes, a bit more animated, more vocal, and visibly more expressive, Ohtani is embracing a new side of himself in the Dodgers. Well, his teammates absolutely love it. It is as much as Ohtani loves to be involved in funny banter with the rival players on the field.

Remember the Dodgers’ 14-11 game against the Diamondbacks last month?

Apart from a run-riot game, the day was memorable for the unique celebration done by Lourdes Gurriel and Shohei Ohtani. Well, fans were convinced since day 1 that Ohtani did the unique celebration post hitting his home run to mimic the same antics by Gurriel done previously. The claim was not officiated until now. But the Dodgers pitcher, Blake Treinen, now acknowledged the event.

The 36-year-old said, “And then he rounds the bases, and Shohei is, like, he’s kind of a troll man, and I love it. He’s, in a good way, like it’s tasteful. So he comes up, proceeds to hit a go-ahead homer, and does the exact same celebration, clasping his hand around the bases. And I saw him when he came back, said, ‘Hey, was that the same celebration that Yuli [Lourdes Gurriel] did?’ And he’s like, [looks around and nods].”

So, it’s confirmed. Shohei Ohtani was playfully imitating Arizona outfielder Lourdes Gurriel by raising his arms out, who had earlier celebrated his game-tying grand slam with flair in the fifth inning. While it may be a subtle payback or just some light-hearted fun, the moment offered a rare glimpse into Ohtani’s evolving on-field persona. One that’s becoming more expressive, competitive, and yes, a little bit spicy.

We surely love the new Ohtani!

Well, Ohtani’s unique celebration post after hitting a home run is not new. Back to his days with the Angels, Ohtani participated in the home run celebration tradition using a toy samurai sword in the dugout. We loved how he embraced the ritual with flair, striking playful poses that gave fans a peek into his light-hearted side.

When his on-field antics are getting properly justified with his bat, there is no wrong in bringing out a bit of personality.

Shohei Ohtani is again doing what he does best

Earlier this season, whispers began to surface. Shohei Ohtani, the face of MLB and the Dodgers’ prized addition, wasn’t quite himself. Remember how his timing looked off? The power wasn’t there. So, the slump, though minor by most standards, was enough to raise eyebrows, especially when it comes to a player of Ohtani’s magnitude.

But if there’s one thing baseball has taught us about Ohtani, it’s not to doubt him for long.

Well, Ohtani is on the route to another showcase of his resilience and brilliance. The numbers now speak for themselves. Ohtani is leading the league in home runs (23). He is crushing pitches with the kind of casual dominance that has become his trademark.

What’s most remarkable isn’t just the return to form, it’s the way he’s doing it. From an early slump to leading the hitting chart, some things are exclusive to the Shotime only!

Now that his return to the mound is highly awaited, we are just on the brink of witnessing another history in the making. Shohei Ohtani in the Dodgers’ blue and white jersey is throwing fireballs.

So, Shohei Ohtani is back. And he’s having fun doing what he does best: Launching baseballs into orbit and reminding us all why he’s the biggest star in the game.