Why is Shohei Ohtani’s Jersey Number 17 at the Dodgers?

The Reason Shohei Ohtani Wears  Number 17 with Dodgers

Many might wonder why Shohei Ohtani chose number 17 as his jersey number with the Dodgers. This decision includes the fact that Joe Kelly, who currently wears number 17, offered it to Ohtani, a gesture of special consideration and respect towards him. The number 17 has a special meaning for Ohtani since his high school days, and it also signifies his achievements with the Angels. Thus, the Dodgers selecting this number for him is a testament to their high regard and respect for Ohtani.

Below are the three reasons why Ohtani’s jersey number was decided to be 17:

1. High School Jersey Number 17:
   Shohei Ohtani wore number 17 during his high school days. This number was considered a “lucky number” at Hanamaki Higashi High School, his alma mater. It started gaining significance when pitcher Yusei Kikuchi wore it in his first year, and after his subsequent success, this tradition was established. Ohtani, admiring Kikuchi, also chose to wear number 17 upon joining the school. Therefore, the high school jersey number 17 holds a special meaning for him. However, it’s important to note that Ohtani himself has not publicly stated that the number 17 has a special meaning to him during his time with the Angels; this is merely speculation.
2. Dodgers Wanted to Show Respect by Securing the Most Appropriate Number:
   While Ohtani himself might not be particularly attached to the number 17, the Dodgers likely wanted to pay the highest respect to a player of his achievements by choosing his jersey number. Instead of assigning him any available number within the team, the Dodgers considered what would be the most suitable number for Ohtani, and thus chose it, demonstrating their utmost respect for him.
3. Jersey Number 17 is Optimal to Commemorate Ohtani’s Achievements with the Angels:
   The number 17, being the number Ohtani wore with the Angels, is also seen as ideal to honor his unprecedented achievements with that team.

In Japan, number 18 is considered the ace number in professional baseball, with numbers close to it, such as 16, 17, and 19, also being associated with ace-level pitchers. Many famous pitchers in Japanese baseball have worn these numbers.

The decision to assign number 17 to Ohtani at the Dodgers can be seen as an expression of special respect and recognition, considering its importance during his high school days and with the Angels. The Dodgers securing this number especially for Ohtani suggests a high appreciation of his talent and contribution to the team, emphasizing that he is valued and comfortable within the Dodgers organization.