Shohei Ohtani’s English ability has often been a topic of discussion.

Anyone watching him during games can see that he communicates comfortably with teammates and even chats casually with opposing players while standing on base. At the very least, conversations related to baseball no longer seem to be a problem for him.

Ohtani also appears naturally outgoing and enjoys small interactions with people around him.

After interpreter Ippei Mizuhara was dismissed in March 2024, many observers noticed that Ohtani seemed even more active in communicating directly with teammates and staff.

During the Dodgers’ World Series celebration parade and award ceremonies, he also delivered short speeches in fluent English. His listening ability is clearly strong, and his speaking has steadily improved as well.

Even so, Ohtani still often uses an interpreter during official interviews.

That does not necessarily mean he cannot speak English. In many professional settings — business, politics, or sports — people who are perfectly capable of speaking another language still rely on interpreters to avoid misunderstandings and communicate their thoughts precisely.

Ohtani likely feels the same way.

One memorable example came in January 2019, during his second MLB offseason after winning Rookie of the Year.

At a banquet hosted by the New York chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, Ohtani gave a speech in English while using prepared notes.

After finishing, he smiled and joked:

“Hopefully next time, I won’t need this cheat sheet.”

The audience burst into laughter.

That small moment captured an important part of Ohtani’s personality: humility, humor, and a willingness to challenge himself without pretending to be perfect.

His bright and relaxed nature fit naturally into American baseball culture.

Source

This quote comes from a Japanese book published in Japan and is not currently available in English.

Chasing Shohei Ohtani: A Beat Reporter’s 10-Year Soulful Notes, p.209