In July 2021, on ESPN’s First Take, outspoken NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith found himself at the center of a storm of controversy following comments he made about Los Angeles Angels sensation Shohei Ohtani’s English language proficiency.
Despite Ohtani’s on-field prowess, Smith chose to focus on Ohtani’s use of an interpreter during English interviews and press conferences.
“I don’t think it helps that the number one face, is a dude that needs an interpreter so you can understand what the hell he’s saying,” Smith said candidly on the show.
Ohtani has been a prominent figure in MLB since joining the Angels in 2018. However, due to his Japanese background, he primarily communicates in his native language and relies on a translator to bridge the language gap during interactions with the English-speaking media.
Smith’s comments immediately ignited a firestorm of backlash from both the Asian and American communities. Critics were quick to point out the insensitivity of Smith’s remarks
Recognizing the gravity of his words and the harm they had caused, Smith swiftly issued an apology for his remarks.
“As an African-American, keenly aware of the damage stereotyping has done to many in this country, it should’ve elevated my sensitivities even more,” he wrote in a public statement on X.
He added:
“Based on my words, I failed in that regard and it’s on me, and me alone. In this day and age, with all the violence being perpetrated against the Asian community, my comments — albeit unintentional — were clearly insensitive and regrettable. I’m sincerely sorry.
I'm sincerely sorry. pic.twitter.com/pANjWTrD4X
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) July 12, 2021
Before foraying into MLB, Shohei Ohtani previously played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of the NPB Pacific League. Next, the Fighters, recognizing his baseball potential, posted him for MLB teams after the 2017 season. The Los Angeles Angels emerged as the fortunate suitor, securing Ohtani’s signature ahead of the 2018 season.
Shohei’s impressive rookie campaign earned him the prestigious 2018 American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award.
In 2021, he also bagged the AL MVP Award.
Evidently, Ohtani’s exceptional dual role as both an offensive powerhouse and a skilled pitcher has positioned his peak performance as one of the standout players in MLB history.
