Getty Image / Steph Chambers
The MLB All-Star game was a huge success as the NL team beat the AL 3-2. Seattle turned out to be a fantastic location for the All-Star break.
But the people in attendance had a goal on Tuesday night and they may have accomplished it.
Seattle Mariners fans made sure to let Shohei Ohtani know how much they want him to play for their team. With the ongoing rumors floating around the league, it was worth a shot.
The entire stadium let Ohtani know how they feel more than once during the All-Star Game, per Yahoo Sports. Here’s what Mariners fans were chanting both times Shohei Ohtani was at the plate.
The "Come to Seattle!" chants are LOUD for Shohei Ohtani 🌟 pic.twitter.com/XrCUzKmuqv
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) July 12, 2023
Just absolute electricity. It’s too bad he wasn’t able to capitalize and hit a home run because that place would have went berserk.
After the contest, Ohtani was asked about chants and Mariners fans. He was impressed by the fanbase, to say the least, via Daniel Kramer of MLB.com.
“I’ve never experienced anything like that, but I definitely heard it. I was just trying to focus on my at-bat and the game. Every time I come here the fans are passionate, they’re really into the game. So it’s very impressive.”
After that, Shohei Ohtani revealed how much he loves the city of Seattle. According to Jessamyn McIntyre, he’s spent some time in the area in not one, but two offseasons.
“I’ve actually spent a couple offseasons in Seattle, I like the city, it’s [beautiful].”
Shohei Ohtani on hearing the chants from #Mariners fans to come to Seattle (through interpreter):
“Every time I come here, the fans are passionate. I’ve actually spent a couple off-seasons in Seattle, I like the city, it’s good.” pic.twitter.com/W52VByI0W1
— Jessamyn McIntyre (@JessamynMcIntyr) July 12, 2023
Those words generated a level of excitement you wouldn’t believe. I mean, the best player in the world loves Seattle so much he casually hangs out there during his off time?
Mariners fans couldn’t help but react to Shohei Ohtani’s comments. Especially considering there is a chance he’ll be available between now and next offseason.
He will be in the Mariners uniform starting next year.
— Michael POS (@mchoyla) July 12, 2023
Some fans are already preparing for heart break.
Oh I’m so ready to be upset when he signs w the dodgers
— ready for football (@jrodshows) July 12, 2023
It might be a small chance, but it’s there.
— Matthew Rathgeber ⭐️⭐️ (@mrathgeber22) July 12, 2023
Roll out the Brinks truck!
Come on Seattle. You know what to do. pic.twitter.com/3MUcI9QWOm
— Football 🔱 (@FunkytownGotcha) July 12, 2023
Shohei Ohtani signing with the Mariners would be crazy.
That would be huuuuuuge!!!
— Matt Overton (@MattOverton_LS) July 12, 2023
For now, Ohtani remains on the Los Angeles Angels and it’s not clear whether or not he’s available via trade.
But, he’s due to hit free agency at the end of the season. Either way, teams across the league are going to get into a bidding war for the ages.