Shohei Ohtani’s arrival as a two-way superstar for the Los Angeles Dodgers has stirred excitement among fans, including Japanese Americans who see him as a unifying figure amid challenges like gentrification in Little Tokyo. The diverse fan base at Dodgers’ spring training reflects the multicultural makeup of Los Angeles, with fans speaking Japanese and Spanish and wearing Ohtani jerseys. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who has Japanese heritage, emphasizes the team’s commitment to diversity. Ohtani’s presence is likened to “Fernandomania,” the fervor around Fernando Valenzuela, highlighting his significance as a cultural icon in Major League Baseball. Valenzuela, now a Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers, believes Ohtani is already beloved in L.A.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/04/us/shohei-ohtani-dodgers-los-angeles.html