Shohei Ohtani (L) and Mamiko Ohtani attend the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation’s 2024 Blue Diamond Gala at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on May 2, 2024. (Kyodo)

Shohei Ohtani (L) and Mamiko Ohtani arrive at the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation’s 2024 Blue Diamond Gala at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on May 2, 2024. (Getty/Kyodo)

The event raises funds for the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation’s community projects and this year featured a performance by British pop star Ed Sheeran.

“It feels like something of a tradition, so I’ve been looking forward to it,” Ohtani said.

The two-way star has made an outstanding start to his first season with the Dodgers despite the unwanted spotlight cast by the alleged gambling scandal involving his former interpreter.

“The season has only just begun, but I think the hard part starts from now,” Ohtani said.

He has credited Mamiko, a former professional basketball player, for her support since their marriage, which he announced in February.

“We’re gradually getting accustomed to the rhythm of life and I think it will become easier as we get used to it,” he said.