Juan Soto, a figure of the San Diego Padres, recognizes the importance and significance of a player like Shohei Ohtani in the Major Leagues. However, with great respect, he said that he is not afraid to face him in Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels.
“It’s impressive,” Soto said according to The Score. “But he’s going to have trouble facing this lineup tomorrow, definitely. I’m coming here to play baseball. We all know he’s an awesome player, but every time I step on that mound, I won’t be afraid to hit.”
Juan Soto says Shohei Ohtani is impressive but “he’s going to have trouble facing this lineup tomorrow.” pic.twitter.com/yLwKsf9Dn9
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 4, 2023
Ohtani’s season has been impressive by any measure, with 31 home runs and a 1.058 OPS going into the All-Star break. All of this places him as a favorite to win the American League MVP award.
In addition, he also plans to break the home run record for the young circuit, set by Aaron Judge last season with 62 home runs, one more than Roger Maris, who owned the brand for many years.
The San Diego Padres have been the big disappointment this season. The club is currently 38-46 and is far from the postseason berths despite all the investment management has put into putting together a competitive club.
