Miami. Japanese star Shohei Ohtani once again took center stage this Saturday during a batting practice prior to the crucial quarter-final match between Japan and Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
The fans, eager to avoid traffic and immerse themselves in the pre-game atmosphere, gathered early at loanDepot Park. The anticipation was rewarded with an unexpected spectacle: Ohtani’s batting practice.
Known for his preference for indoor batting cages, Ohtani’s decision to practice on the field was a surprise, replicating a similar action in the 2023 World Baseball Classic semifinals.
A Spectacle of Power
The result was a true delight for those present. Each contact of Ohtani’s bat generated immediate reactions, with fans trying to catch the balls and the stands packed with spectators.
Cell phones recorded every home run, as the ball flew impressive distances all over the stadium.
Even Venezuelan players stopped their activities to witness the Japanese player’s display of power, whose hits threatened to reach the highest zones of the park.
Although the official distance of the home runs was not measured, the power of the hits showed why Ohtani is considered one of the most impactful players in world baseball.
This practice session served as the perfect prelude to the highly anticipated duel between Japan and Venezuela, two teams that aspire to reach the semifinals of the World Baseball Classic and advance in the quest for the title.
