Earvin “Magic” Johnson was a guest on the Fox pregame show before Game 4 of the World Series to discuss Shohei Ohtani following the marathon 18-inning Game 3 at Dodger Stadium on Monday.
The legendary Los Angeles Lakers player and co-owner of the Dodgers shared his admiration for Ohtani, providing an honest and factual assessment of the Los Angeles Angels, Ohtani’s former team.
Here’s what Johnson stated when questioned about Ohtani’s unique qualities prior to his Game 4 appearance on the mound, subsequent to Monday’s game where Ohtani reached base an astounding nine times.
“He’s the most dedicated player on the Dodger team and possibly in all of baseball,” Johnson commented. “He is mindful of his physical condition. He prioritizes his well-being. He’s deeply committed to playing the game correctly.”
“He joined the team to secure victories. His tenure with the Angels was marked by continuous losses. He aspired to win and participate in the World Series. He has realized that ambition and excelled at it.”
Magic Johnson, a devoted admirer of Shohei Ohtani.
(Rob Tringali via Getty Images)
His tenure with the Angels was characterized by consistent defeats.
This statement is demonstrably accurate. Ohtani’s arrival in MLB coincided with joining an Angels team already boasting a multiple-time MVP in Mike Trout, with the aim of propelling them into contention. Throughout his six seasons with the Angels, they failed to make any playoff appearances and did not achieve a single winning season.
During his time with the team, the Angels never achieved a higher position than third place in the AL West. This occurred only once.
Consequently, Johnson’s assessment holds true. Ohtani experienced numerous losses while playing for the Angels. When the Dodgers presented a compelling offer, exceeding what the Angels were willing to provide, along with the promise of competing at baseball’s highest level, he opted for the move across town prior to the 2024 season.
Since then, Ohtani has secured his third MVP award and is highly likely to add a fourth. Additionally, he is vying for his second World Series title in just two seasons since joining the Dodgers. Things are progressing exceptionally well for both Shohei and the Dodgers.
It’s relatively unusual to hear a co-owner of a professional sports team speak so openly about the difficulties of another team. The situation is all the more remarkable considering the proximity of the Angels to the Dodgers, separated only by a short drive down the 5 Freeway — depending on Los Angeles traffic conditions, naturally.
However, Johnson is not your typical franchise stakeholder. He has earned five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and is among the few Los Angeles sports figures whose prominence rivals that of Ohtani.
He embodies the spirit of competition wholeheartedly. Moreover, he doesn’t hesitate to express his views on the shortcomings of their neighbors.
