The Subtle War: Ohtani Retracts Courtesy to Mike Shildt in “Peaceful but Hostile” Message.vc
Analysis: The Subtle Hostile Message
Ohtani’s behavior is described as a “Cold War” between him and Manager Mike Shildt, centered on the issue of respect in baseball.
The Origin of the Hostility (June 2025)
The frigid relationship reportedly began after a series of incidents, peaking around June 19, 2025:
- The Pitching Incident: Padres Closer, Robert Suárez, threw a pitch high and tight toward Ohtani’s body (up-and-in), even hitting him in the back. This was widely viewed as a presumed intentional inside pitch, possibly executed under Shildt’s instruction.
- Ohtani’s Reaction: Ohtani handled the situation with “grace,” personally calming the Dodgers’ dugout to prevent a bench-clearing brawl. He even joked with Suárez later at the All-Star Game.
However, this calm demeanor did not mean Ohtani overlooked the sign of disrespect.
The “Peaceful” Hostile Action
Prior to that incident, Shohei Ohtani always had a ritual when stepping into the box for his first at-bat of every game: he would bow and tip his cap or wave a hand toward the opposing team’s dugout, showing respect.
After the presumed intentional pitching incident:
- Ohtani’s Message: Ohtani has completely stopped performing the bow or cap-tip ritual toward the Padres’ dugout, specifically where Mike Shildt stands.
- The Significance: Commentators interpret this as Ohtani being respectful of opponents when that respect is reciprocated. His refusal to extend that common courtesy to the Padres and Shildt—while continuing to do so for every other team—is seen as a clear silence and disrespect that speaks volumes.
In short, Ohtani never uttered a hostile word. Instead, he uses the retraction of courtesy as a powerful and subtle message, implying that Shildt has lost the superstar’s respect.
