- Advertisement -
As the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) regular season unfolds, fans around the world eagerly anticipate the performances of international players who bring their unique talents to the diamond. Among these stars, Shohei Ohtani stands out as a true phenomenon. Let’s explore the top international players to keep an eye on this season:
1. Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers)
- Position: Pitcher and Designated Hitter (DH)
- 2023 Stats: .304/.412/.654, 44 home runs, 95 RBIs, 10.0 WAR
- Impact: Shohei Ohtani’s dual-threat abilities make him a must-watch player. As a pitcher, he possesses electric stuff, and as a DH, he launches jaw-dropping home runs. His historic 2023 season earned him widespread acclaim, and he continues to redefine what’s possible in baseball.
2. Ha-Seong Kim (San Diego Padres)
- Position: Shortstop
- 2023 Stats: batting average of .260 with 140 hits, 17 home runs, 60 RBIs and 84 runs scored in 152 games
- Impact: Last year, he increased his on-base percentage by about 30 points (to .356), hit a career-high 17 home runs, and swiped 36 bags. He’s also played elite defense at second base.
3. Luis Robert Jr. (Chicago White Sox)
- Position: Center Fielder
- 2023 Stats: Batted . 264 with 144 hits, 38 home runs, 80 RBIs and 90 runs scored in 145 games in 2023
- Impact: Robert’s talent knows no bounds. He showcased his potential last year. His improvement and power hitting make him a rising star. Keep an eye on this phenom.
4. Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Los Angeles Dodgers)
- Position: Starting Pitcher
- 2023 Stats: Not specified
- Impact: Yamamoto’s inclusion in the Dodgers’ rotation adds depth. His performance will be crucial as the team aims for postseason success. Look for him to make waves in 2024.
5. Isaac Paredes (Tampa Bay Rays)
- Position: Infielder
- 2023 stats: Batting average of .250 with 123 hits, 31 home runs, 98 RBIs and 71 runs scored in 143 games
- Impact: Isaac Paredes has been a difference-maker for the Rays, setting new career highs in doubles, home runs, RBIs, runs scored, walks and OPS. Year over year, he increased his doubles from 16 to 23, home runs from 20 to 29, RBIs from 45 to 92 and runs scored from 48 to 66. He also boosted his OPS from .739 to .845.
In summary, international stars like Shohei Ohtani, Luis Robert Jr. Yamamoto, and Paredespromise have thrilling moments throughout the 2024 MLB season. These players certainly elevate the game and captivate fans worldwide.
- Advertisement -
