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70 Million People Watched Shohei Ohtani's Dodgers Press Conference

Originally posted on Los Angeles Dodgers on SI
By Matt Levine | Last updated Dec 17, 2023 12:00 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers introduced two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani on Thursday, leading to much joy from the fanbase. This moment had been a long time coming, so it was special for all involved.

The press conference was held at Dodger Stadium, and it was unlike anything ever seen before. It was filled to the brim with media members and had global attention directly on it.

It was the first time that Ohtani had spoken to the media since August, so it was highly-anticipated. He provided insight into why he picked the Dodgers in free agency and his goals for the upcoming season.

The introductory press conference for Ohtani drew in 70 million viewers. This surpassed the entirety of the 2023 World Series between the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks.

The past World Series averaged 9.1M viewers per game over 5 games ~ 45.5M viewers total

Todays @Dodgers press conference introducing Shohei Ohtani drew 70M via @DustyBakerTV

Think about that. #LetsGoDodgers pic.twitter.com/qJb1rD7qFa
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) December 15, 2023

This, my friends, is the Shohei Ohtani effect. He is the biggest draw in sports right now, and the Dodgers are very happy to have him on their roster.

Getting Ohtani for his off-the-field marketability was as much a part of the Dodgers' determination to land him as what he brings them on the field. He is a global superstar through and through, and it played out for L.A. on Thursday.

This is what the Dodgers can expect going forward for the duration of his 10-year contract. Ohtani is his own brand, and combining that with the brand of the Dodgers leads to record numbers.

Major League Baseball is extremely thrilled that Ohtani landed in Los Angeles, as it's the perfect place to market him. This isn't a shot at the other clubs around the league, but having the biggest star in Hollywood is huge.

In 48 hours after his jersey sales went live, Ohtani broke the all-time record for Fanatics. He may be the biggest star in all of sports, and he is a member of your Los Angeles Dodgers.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Dodgers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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