In one of the most unforgettable seasons in baseball history, Shohei Ohtani has done the unthinkable -- leading his team to a World Series title while rewriting the record books, all in the first year of his partnership with Rapsodo.
With a display of athleticism that transcends the game, Ohtani showcased why he’s more than just a two-way player; he’s a generational talent. But what’s making headlines beyond his jaw-dropping stats is how his collaboration with Rapsodo helped him elevate his game in key areas this season.
A Season for the Ages
Ohtani's 2024 campaign was nothing short of legendary. He finished the regular season with 54 home runs, 59 stolen bases, becoming the first player in MLB history to record a 50/50 season.
In addition to his record-breaking accomplishment, Ohtani also had a .310 batting average with 130 RBIs. The dual-threat phenom seemed to make the impossible look routine— he found a way to make him the undeniable choice for the NL MVP Award.
But what stands out most about Ohtani’s story this year is how he leveraged cutting-edge technology to fine-tune his performance, particularly with the help of Rapsodo.
Rapsodo: The Edge in Ohtani’s Game
Ohtani’s partnership with Rapsodo was announced before the 2024 season, and it quickly became evident that he was using the technology to push his game to the next level. Known for its advanced data capture and real-time feedback, Rapsodo helped Ohtani better understand his mechanics—both as a hitter and rehabbing as a pitcher.
For hitters, Rapsodo’s hitting insights allowed Ohtani to break down his swing in granular detail. Using data like exit velocity, launch angle, and spray charts, he could make minor adjustments that had major impacts. Whether it was tweaking his stance for more power or finding gaps in the defense, Ohtani used the instant feedback to perfect his already lethal swing.
On the mound, Rapsodo’s pitching data gave Ohtani an edge when it came to rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. With data on spin rate, spin axis, and vertical/horizontal break, Ohtani was able to build back to his normal mechanics without furthering risk of injury.
Ohtani emphasized this point in a midseason interview, saying, “For pitching, I use the PRO 3.0 ball flight monitor to check if my pitching data matches the intention that i am throwing it with. being able to check the data helps smooth out my rehab process."
Dominating in the World Series
When the lights shined brightest, Ohtani delivered. In the World Series, he turned in an MVP-caliber performance, hitting .230 with 3 home runs and 10 RBIs over 61 at bats.
Ohtani’s use of Rapsodo was clear throughout the series. His meticulous approach, guided by Rapsodo’s data-driven insights, was evident as he consistently adjusted his game. Whether it was targeting his exit velocity to launch key hits or aiming for the opposite field, Ohtani found new ways to dominate, game after game.
A New Era for Baseball Tech
Shohei Ohtani’s partnership with Rapsodo is proof that technology is revolutionizing baseball, helping elite athletes unlock their full potential. As the game becomes more data-driven, tools like Rapsodo are helping players at all levels refine their craft with unprecedented precision.
For Ohtani, the numbers speak for themselves. This season was one for the history books, and his work with Rapsodo was a key part of the equation. His World Series victory marks not only a personal triumph but also a celebration of how advanced data and technology are shaping the future of the game.
During an interview with Rapsodo, Ohtani praised the technology and wished he had access to it sooner, "I wish these tools were available to me earlier. I think players should use these tools for growth, and the earlier they start using them, the faster their growth will be.
As Ohtani’s legacy grows, one thing is clear: his partnership with Rapsodo is only just beginning. With tools that continue to push the boundaries of what athletes can achieve, the future of baseball—and Ohtani’s place in it—looks brighter than ever.
Interested in training like a World Series champion? Explore our product lineup or email playerdevelopment@rapsodo.com to add Rapsodo technology to your program!
