Shohei Ohtani Receives Hostile Reception From Toronto Fans During World Series Games

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was met with boos and a pointed chant from Toronto Blue Jays fans during Games 1 and 2 of the World Series, stemming from his free agency decision two years ago.

The Rogers Centre crowd repeatedly chanted “We don’t need you!” as Ohtani came to the plate, a clear reference to the Blue Jays’ unsuccessful attempt to sign the two-way phenom in December 2023. The chant began during the ninth inning of Game 1, which Toronto won 11-4, and resurfaced during his first at-bat in Game 2. Ohtani was also booed during player introductions before Game 1, and was seen smiling as the jeers rang out.

Despite the hostile environment, Ohtani remained composed, even joking about the experience. “It was a really great chant, and my wife really appreciated it,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton. He contributed to the Dodgers’ efforts, hitting a home run in Game 1 and going 1-for-4 with a run scored in Game 2, which Los Angeles won 5-1 to tie the series at one game apiece. This series marks Ohtani’s first World Series appearance after years of individual accolades.

Ohtani is scheduled to start Game 4 on Tuesday, following his dominant performance in the National League Championship Series where he earned MVP honors after pitching six scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts and hitting three home runs to sweep the Milwaukee Brewers. MLB.com has more on the ongoing series, and fans can find details about the World Series schedule on the official MLB website.

Dodgers officials have not commented on the fan reaction, but Ohtani is expected to address the situation further if asked following Game 4.