Former manager Katsuya Nomura, famous for his “ID Baseball” philosophy built around data and analysis, often said something surprising:
“In the end, it comes down to guts.”
No matter how much information or strategy exists, in games where defeat is unacceptable, the deciding factor is often mental toughness.
Shohei Ohtani showed exactly that kind of mentality in high-pressure international competition.
Although Ohtani is often seen as calm and composed, his performances during the 2023 World Baseball Classic revealed a different side of him—one filled with fierce competitiveness and an intense desire to lead his team emotionally.
At the heart of that attitude was a simple belief:
“The side with the stronger desire to win will prevail.”
Ohtani had already experienced this lesson years earlier during the 2015 Premier12 tournament.
Japan faced South Korea twice in that event.
In the opening-round game, Ohtani dominated as the starting pitcher, striking out ten batters and throwing six scoreless innings to secure Japan’s victory.
But the rematch came in the semifinals—a game Japan absolutely could not lose.
This time, Ohtani sensed something different.
The Korean lineup approached him with overwhelming intensity and determination, and he realized that simply pitching the same way as before would not be enough.
He later recalled thinking:
“I can’t lose emotionally. I need to bring out something even greater.”
Instead of pacing himself or worrying about what might happen later in the game, Ohtani attacked from the very beginning with overpowering fastballs capable of generating swings and misses.
The result was extraordinary.
He threw seven innings, allowed only one hit, struck out eleven batters, and completely shut South Korea down.
Reflecting on the game afterward, Ohtani understood something important:
At the highest level, talent alone is not enough.
In moments where everything is on the line, mental strength becomes part of the pitch itself.
Source
This quote comes from a Japanese book published in Japan and is not currently available in English.
Shohei Ohtani: Baseball Youth, Vol. I — Japan Edition 2013–2018, p.204