ANAHEIM, Calif. — In modern baseball history, it’s traditionally been the rookie pitcher who has captivated the game.
There was Vida Blue in 1971.
There was Mark Fidrych in 1976.
There was Fernando Valenzuela in 1981.
And there was Dwight Gooden in 1985.
Each, seemingly, came out of nowhere to become the talk of baseball. Their starts were certified events, most taking place before sold-out crowds. There’s something special about a young phenom on the mound and that goes doubly so for young pitchers with charisma.
And now, add to that list, Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani, too, is attracting fans and commanding media attention worldwide. His starts are circled on the baseball calendar, greeted with great anticipation. Thanks to a rainout of his scheduled start in Kansas City Sunday, Ohtani’s will next pitch Tuesday night in Anaheim against the Red Sox.
Of course, there’s a twist. Ohtani has become baseball’s version of Ginger Rogers, of whom it was once said: “She did everything Fred Astaire did – except backwards and in high heels.’’
We know you were looking forward to a great Sho today. To hold you over until Tuesday, enjoy Ohtani Sho-ing ‘em how it’s done! #ShoTime pic.twitter.com/uutBAuSnsr
— Angels (@Angels) April 15, 2018
Well, this sho looked familiar. Home runs in back-to-back games for Ohtani! #ShoTime pic.twitter.com/lKebFmqnZs
— Angels (@Angels) April 4, 2018