Japanese star player, Shohei Ohtani, finally broke his 19 plate appearance hitless streak in Major League Baseball with a triumphant hit. The achievement did not just indicate Ohtani's return to form, but also marked a crucial turning point in his current season. The moment rippled with significance for not just Ohtani himself, but also for baseball fans worldwide.

In Japan, baseball is more than just a sport – it's an element of cultural heritage. Japanese fans are deeply vested in the success and performance of their baseball athletes on international stages like the MLB. A lot of attention and scrutiny is placed on these players, and their ups and downs in performance can become national talking points, signifying the strong sense of national pride in the sport.

Similar to Japan, baseball players in the US and EU also face intense public scrutiny. There is relentless expectation placed on these players to perform consistently, making every match significant. However, while American culture prioritizes an athlete’s individual glory, Japanese culture puts a stronger emphasis on community, teamwork, and the honor of playing for your country.