Shohei Ohtani

"If there were another Japanese player on the same team, I could just ask them about anything, right?" Imai said, according to MLB.com's translation. "But that's actually not what I'm looking for. In a way, I want to experience that sense of survival. When I come face-to-face with cultural differences, I want to see how I can overcome them on my own -- that's part of what I'm excited about." Imai later added that Shohei Ohtani was the major leaguer he most wanted to face. The 27-year-old Imai hasn't really been connected with the Dodgers anyway, as they're more focused on offense this offseason. The Yankees and Mets are among the teams thought to be interested in him, and it'd be good news for the Yankees if he really doesn't want to play with another Japanese player. Of course, that could just be talk.

Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani announced that he will play Japan next year as Japan looks to defend its World Baseball Classic title.

Ohtani helped Japan win the 2023 WBC, striking out then-Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout for the final out of the championship game against the United States. He was named MVP of the tournament.

Ohtani and Japan are trying to win their second straight WBC championship in March

The Dodgers superstar plans to play for his home country once again in next year's baseball spectacle.