Major League Baseball (MLB) Los Angeles DodgersShohei Ohtani, the team's three-time MVP, will return to the pitcher's mound this season and resume his second-class identity.

Shohei Otani

Shohei Ohtani threw a total of 21 balls in the second bullshed, most of them were straight balls, according to the data measured by Sankei Sports, Shohei Ohtani's straight balls are currently 10% better than his spin efficiency in 2023, in addition, the longitudinal change of Shohei Ohtani's straight balls has increased by about 4 inches from about 14 inches in the past few seasons.

The report explains that the rotation efficiency refers to the value of how much the real speed of the ball can be converted into the actual amount of change, in the case of straight balls, if the rotation efficiency reaches 100%, it means that the rotation axis of the ball is parallel to the ground, which can form a perfect backspin, which will bring the commonly known upward channeling effect.

In addition, when Shohei Ohtani made his move, the angle of his arm to the ground also changed. In 2020 and 2021, it was about 45 degrees, in 2022 it was 39 degrees, and in 2023 it was 36 degrees, but this year, Shohei Ohtani's right elbow position has improved significantly, so the release point has become higher, and he is more inclined to high-pressure throwing, which can correct his speedball shaft and improve spin efficiency.

According to the report, Shota Imana, who performed well last season, has an active spin of 99% on his straight balls, and if Shohei Ohtani can maintain the same posture after recovery, his straight ball swing rate is expected to increase, and because his elbows are closer to his body, the burden is also expected to be reduced.