Dodgers manager Dave Roberts makes feelings known about Shohei Ohtani’s character after historic AP Male Athlete of the Year win

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had nothing but compliments regarding Shohei Ohtani following Ohtani’s naming as the AP’s Male Athlete of the Year. On Monday, the AP named Shohei Ohtani as the 2024 Male Athlete of the Year on the heels of his historic 50/50 season.

Roberts shared his thoughts on Ohtani winning the prestigious award by highlighting the Japanese star's character:

“I really do believe that as good of a ballplayer as he is, he’s a much better person. He’s very kind, considerate, he cares.”

Roberts’ comments come after a year of interacting with Ohtani day in and day out. As such, Roberts goes on to state that:

“I’m just proud of any fame or glory or award that he receives because he just does it in such a respectful and humble way.”

Roberts concluded his thoughts on Ohtani’s outlook for 2025 by stating:

“I’m just excited to see what ’25 has for Shohei Ohtani.”

Shohei Ohtani reacts to winning third AP Male Athlete of the Year award

Shohei Ohtani won the AP Male Athlete of the Year for the third time, tying him with basketball legend Michael Jordan. He is one behind Tiger Woods, LeBron James, and Lance Armstrong for the most all time.

“I’m very honored,” Ohtani said through translator Matt Hidaka in an exclusive interview with the AP. ”Obviously all the hard work has paid off. Maybe next year, I’ll get the award again.”

Ohtani noted that he followed the success of Jordan and Woods while growing up in Japan. Now, he is considered one of, if not the best in his sport like those other greats.

Amid individual records such as the first 50-home run, 50-stolen base season, and honors, Ohtani also achieved the ultimate team success for the first time in MLB.

In his first postseason appearance, Ohtani hit three homers and drove in 10 runs in 61 plate appearances. He added a .766 OPS. However, he did not steal any bases during the postseason. In fact, Ohtani got hurt during a base-stealing attempt in Game 2 of the World Series against the New York Yankees.

The injury sidelined Ohtani briefly, but he came back strong to win his first championship. Ohtani required offseason surgery to repair the injury but seems on track to be ready for Spring Training in 2025.

Ohtani and the Boys in Blue will be looking to win back-to-back World Series titles for the first time in franchise history.