After an injury-plagued start to his MLB career, fans all around baseball were hyped to see what a full-strength Shohei Ohtani was capable of in 2021. Shotime did not disappoint. All the two-way phenom did was put together one of the most remarkable seasons in MLB history, earning him the 2021 American League MVP award in unanimous fashion. The two-way superstar dominated both on the mound and at the plate in a fashion not seen in the professional game since the legendary Babe Ruth. Ohtani became the first player in history to hit at least 30 home runs in a season while making at least 10 pitching appearances. He smacked 46 homers while amassing an impressive 3.18 ERA in 130 1/3 innings pitched. His historic feats have continued into 2022, as he became the first player since Babe Ruth to amass at least 10 wins and 10 home runs in a season.
Offered here is a game worn jersey from one of the most memorable moments from a 2021 season full of them: the game Ohtani hit his 45th home run. This milestone dinger tied him with Mike Trout for second place on the Angels all-time single season home run list, passing all-time greats like Albert Pujols, Vladimir Guerrero and Reggie Jackson. When Ohtani stepped to the plate in the bottom of the 8th, the Angels were in desperate need of something to give them life, trailing the Houston Astros 10-4. Like he has done so many times before and since, Ohtani did just that. He blasted a towering shot 445 feet over the right field fence to send a jolt of excitement into the Angels faithful in attendance.
The Nike branded jersey supplies a tri-tone tackle twill "Angels 17" on the chest. The lower left front tail shows MLB authentic collection Nike tagging above a secondary tag with both Fanatics and MLB Authentication affixed to it. On the reverse of the jersey, "Ohtani 17" is found. Shotime signed the number "1" with his Japanese autograph. Inscribed on the number "7" is both "AL MVP 21" and "HR 45 9.21.21." The left sleeve bears a franchise logo patch. Game use is evident, with some infield dirt on the front of the jersey.
Along with the 45th home run game September 21, this jersey was also worn by Ohtani on June 6 and 7. Fanatics Authentic AA0107572, MLB Authentic VS685666, and accompanied by a Beckett LOA for the autograph.
Estimate: $50,000 - $75,000