After the Texas Rangers’ surprise victory in the World Series last season, the race for the 2024 title seems wide open. According to different bookmakers, the Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Yankees are the leading contenders. But in this unpredictable sport, any franchise has a chance at glory.
The biggest MLB news this offseason was the blockbuster transfer of Shohei Ohtani to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Heading into the 2024 campaign, the Japanese superstar’s move is just one of many stories that have baseball fans excited.\u00a0
With new acquisitions, rising prospects, and veterans searching for one last ring, the 2024 MLB season is shaping up to be exciting. Which team will finally triumph? As Opening Day approaches, all we can do is speculate. One thing is for sure: this season will be full of dramatic comebacks, rising stars, and unforgettable moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest story of this past MLB offseason was the trade that sent the star from the Los Angeles Angels to their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani has been sensational since arriving from Japan in 2018, winning the American League MVP in 2021 and 2023, thanks to his incredible pitching and hitting exploits.\u00a0With the Angels, he emerged as the most determinant player in the game and became the first player since Babe Ruth to excel as a starting pitcher and power hitter.\u00a0<\/strong>
Ohtani’s arrival to the Dodgers solidifies them as the World Series favorites this season. Joining a lineup already loaded with Mookie Betts, Will Smith, and Freddie Freeman, Ohtani takes them to another level offensively.\u00a0
However, after undergoing Tommy John surgery at the end of the 2023 season, the Dodgers plan to ease Shohei Ohtani back into action by having him start this season solely as a designated hitter. The surgery and recovery mean Ohtani will not yet be ready to resume pitching.\u00a0
The Dodgers want to take it slow and not rush him back to the mound too soon after major elbow surgery. While he has made excellent progress in rehabbing and rebuilding arm strength, the team feels he should hold off pitching again until at least midseason or later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n