The influence of Shohei Ohtani extends far beyond home runs, MVP awards, and highlight reels.

According to Stan Kasten, the global demand associated with Ohtani and the Dodgers has become so intense that Japanese companies are purchasing advertising space in opposing stadiums just to be seen during Dodgers broadcasts.

Speaking to Variety, Kasten revealed:

“Companies that have not been able to get in on Dodger signs go to visiting cities to get signs behind home plate. You’ll see a Japanese sign because the sponsor couldn’t get in on Dodger signage.”

The statement offers a remarkable glimpse into the economic power Ohtani has brought to the Los Angeles Dodgers and Major League Baseball as a whole.

Traditionally, advertisers compete for premium signage inside a team’s home stadium. But Ohtani’s popularity has created such overwhelming demand that some Japanese brands are now looking for alternative ways to reach viewers. If they can’t secure advertising space at Dodger Stadium, they simply purchase highly visible signage in road ballparks where Dodgers games will still attract massive audiences.

That’s a level of marketing influence rarely seen in professional sports.

The strategy makes perfect sense. Dodgers games featuring Ohtani draw enormous interest from Japan, where millions of fans follow his every at-bat. Any sign positioned behind home plate during a broadcast can receive significant exposure not only in the United States but also across international markets.

For the Dodgers, it’s another example of how Ohtani’s arrival has transformed the business side of the franchise.

Attendance, merchandise sales, television ratings, sponsorship opportunities, and international engagement have all experienced substantial growth since the superstar joined Los Angeles. His appeal crosses cultural and geographic boundaries in a way few athletes ever achieve.

What’s especially remarkable is that this phenomenon isn’t limited to Dodger Stadium anymore.

The “Ohtani effect” now follows the team wherever it goes.

Whether the Dodgers are playing in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, or any other MLB city, businesses recognize the opportunity to connect with one of the largest and most engaged audiences in global sports.

In many ways, Ohtani has become more than a baseball player. He is a worldwide brand whose presence creates value for teams, broadcasters, sponsors, and the league itself.

Kasten’s comments underscore a reality that has become increasingly clear over the past year:

When the Dodgers come to town, they’re not just bringing one of baseball’s best teams.

They’re bringing a global audience. 🌎⚾🇯🇵