The dexterous talent, humility, and hard work of Shoehi Ohtani bring a unifying joy to Los Angeles — and also serve as a reminder of “how free from mortal constraints we can be.”

It’s been a challenging year for the residents of Los Angeles. Destructive wildfires and political turmoil over the federal detention of unauthorized migrants have tested Angelenos.

But then there was Shohei Ohtani.

His exceptional performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers this season has helped the city rediscover joy and community. Perhaps most of all, people see the values of modesty and hard work in this Japanese athlete’s extraordinary talent in a quintessentially American sport.

Last Friday, Mr. Ohtani – who is both a top pitcher and batter, like Babe Ruth – struck out 10 Milwaukee Brewers players over six

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