The Japanese slugger was introduced before each at-bat to loud roars that continued until a few seconds before the pitch, when the crowd went into a silent trance that’s normally reserved for events like Wimbledon or the Masters.

Major League Baseball has had no shortage of stars, but it has never seen a sensation like Ohtani, who is Japan’s answer to Babe Ruth.

The Tokyo Series and its celebration of Shohei Ohtani begins this week in a festive atmosphere. The Japanese two-way star is among the most beloved athletes in the world and coming off one of the best