The 2024 Major League Baseball postseason is witnessing a surge in global interest, particularly from fans in Japan, thanks to the exciting presence of stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Their performances have captivated audiences, leading to record viewership figures during this postseason.
Rising Viewership Numbers
According to reports from FOX and FS1, the networks broadcasting Dodgers games, there has been a notable increase in audience engagement. The postseason has attracted approximately 4.1 million viewers, marking an 18.8% rise compared to the previous season. This figure represents the highest postseason viewership since 2007, underscoring the impact of Ohtani and Yamamoto on the league’s popularity.
Record-Breaking Game Audiences
The Dodgers’ victory in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets was particularly significant, with nearly 8.5 million viewers tuning in. This is the largest audience for a postseason game since 2009. Additionally, Game 5 of the National League Division Series against the Padres reached a remarkable 13 million viewers from Japan, highlighting the strong connection between Japanese fans and their stars playing in the MLB.
Ohtani’s Appreciation for Japanese Fans
Shohei Ohtani expressed gratitude towards his Japanese supporters, acknowledging the challenges posed by the time difference. “I’m sure it’s not easy for people in Japan to be able to watch these games because of the time difference,” he said. He praised Yamamoto’s pitching performance and emphasized their commitment to excelling for fans both in Japan and abroad.
Anticipation for the World Series
As the Dodgers prepare for the World Series against the New York Yankees, which starts on October 25 in Los Angeles, viewership is expected to continue its upward trajectory. The matchup between these two iconic franchises is anticipated to draw even larger audiences, further cementing the significance of Ohtani and Yamamoto’s contributions to the game.
In summary, the arrival of Ohtani and Yamamoto in the MLB has not only enhanced the competitive landscape but also fostered a deeper connection with fans, particularly in Japan. With the postseason generating record viewership, the excitement surrounding these players continues to grow.
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