Dodgers Show Shohei Ohtani in Unreleased New Balance Cleats

Is Shohei Ohtani wearing his first signature New Balance cleat during a workout at Dodger Stadium?

We are just over two weeks away from pitchers and catchers reporting for MLB Spring Training. The American League's reigning MVP, Shohei Ohtani, has already begun working out at his new workplace. On Monday afternoon, the Los Angeles Dodgers shared pictures of Ohtani training on the field at Dodger Stadium. 

Ohtani wore Dodgers gear from head to toe, except for a pair of never-before-seen New Balance cleats. Is it possible the Dodgers' social media team just leaked Ohtani's first signature cleat, or is it just a player-exclusive colorway of an existing model? Check out the Instagram post below, and we will tell you what stands out to us.

So, we at FanNation Kicks admittedly focus more on sneakers than cleats. It is entirely possible that a New Balance cleat flew under our radar. However, we do not see any other cleats on the New Balance website that fit the exact description. It is a mid-cut model with what looks like a FuelCell midsole and metal cleats, but it is not the New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7.

Additionally, the white and blue colorway features unique branding on the tongues. Either "SO1" or "S01" is stitched into the tongues above the New Balance branding. It is unlikely that it is Ohtani's signature logo, but perhaps the name of the model. Unfortunately, the final verdict remains a mystery. 

Ohtani signed a long-term partnership with New Balance on January 31, 2023. Since then, Ohtani starred in New Balance's "We Got Now" global marketing campaign and collaborated with the brand on apparel and footwear. 

While New Balance has not announced plans for Ohtani to receive a signature line, it feels like a safe bet for the future. Ohtani's first season with the Dodgers is sure to be exciting, especially if it coincides with the launch of his signature sneaker line. Stay locked into FanNationKicks.com for all your footwear news from the sports world. 

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