This piece delves into the question of whether Japanese baseball star, Shohei Ohtani, is actually a weak competitor. This follows several criticisms about Ohtani's performance in major games, particularly focusing on whether he falters under pressure. The article offers an objective analysis of Ohtani's performance statistics in various situations, and draws a conclusion on the assumption.
In Japan, baseball is a beloved sport and athletes like Shohei Ohtani who make it to Major League Baseball are highly revered. Their performances are scrutinized and have wide societal impact. The value placed on harmony often leads to harsh self-criticism, thus, accusations of being "weak in competition" can be quite damaging.
Comparable scrutiny exists in the US and the EU, especially among top-level athletes. The intensity may vary, but the pressure of delivering under high-stakes circumstances and the scrutiny done by the media and the public is acknowledged globally.