Angels Introduce Shohei Ohtani Before Throng Of Fans, Japanese Media

The Angels introduced P/DH Shohei Ohtani yesterday in a press conference outside Angel Stadium in front of an "estimated 1,000 fans." But there were "no major revelations" as to why Ohtani chose to play in Anaheim, as he "reiterated what his representatives said in a written statement the previous day, which was that he felt a connection with the team." Ohtani received his No. 17 jersey from Owner Arte Moreno (L.A. TIMES, 12/10). ESPN's Shelley Smith said, "Ohtani-mania is here, and you better get used to it" ("SportsCenter," ESPN, 12/10).

A short line "formed at a temporary kiosk that sold season tickets" before the event, and the doors to the team store were "wedged open." The event was attended by "more than 200 media members" and "perhaps 150 from Japanese news agencies" (SPORTS.YAHOO.com, 12/9). Ohtani can "bring an aura of excitement to this Anaheim-based franchise that frequently lives in the shadows" of the Dodgers (WALL STREET JOURNAL, 12/9).