Shohei Ohtani Signs With New Balance

MLB All-Star Shohei Ohtani has signed a long-term deal with New Balance.

Los Angeles Angels pitcher and designated hitter Shohei Ohtani is a force of nature. Since making his MLB debut in 2018, Ohtani has cemented himself as one of the best players in the world. Two All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger Award, and an American League MVP Award in short order.

Meanwhile, New Balance has enjoyed an equally impressive rise in popularity. Its star-studded cast of signature athletes across all sports has helped lift the Boston-based brand to new heights. So, it is only fitting that Ohtani and New Balance team up to create more magic on and off the field.

Today, Ohtani officially joined the New Balance family as part of a long-term deal. Ohtani and New Balance plan to build a relationship that celebrates breaking barriers and inspires the next generation of athletes around the world.

“As I continue my journey in baseball, I am excited to join the New Balance family,” says Ohtani. “New Balance is a global brand that is known for having incredible product innovation but also for being an authentic brand who allows their athletes to be themselves. I am excited to join with them to change the game.” 

“Shohei is a once-in-a-generation athlete who fits with our larger roster of athletes in their approach to their respective sports,'' says Neil Brooks, Head of Baseball Sports Marketing. “Shohei is never satisfied and is constantly pushing himself and his team to be better while letting his on-field performance speak for itself. We look forward to building the relationship and helping Shohei achieve his dreams and in the process truly change the game as we know it.” 

Shohei Ohtani holds the NB 574 cleat / New Balance

New Balance will work with Ohtani on a variety of campaigns across the brand. The first will be a special, limited-edition 574 Cleat, a new take on one of the brand’s classic models. This will represent the first time the iconic 574 model will appear on the field, bringing the culture of the ballpark and the fashion-forward style together.

The 574 Cleat matches up in pattern and aesthetic to the 574. However, the cleat version includes changes to the interior that ensure this cleat is fit for the field and has all the fit, support, and performance elements. The 574 Cleat will launch in February on New Balance's website, with the suggested retail price starting at $120.

Shohei joins a stellar roster of athletes who are leaders in their respective sports, such as Kawhi Leonard, Sydney McLaughlin, Coco Gauff, Raheem Sterling, Sadio Mane, and more. 

The common thread throughout the New Balance roster of athletes is their ability to push through physical limits and ensure a lasting impact within the world of sports but also in the communities in which they are a part.

The addition of Ohtani to New Balance's growing juggernaut of signature athletes shakes up the baseball world and is a shot across the bow for the rest of the sports apparel industry. The future remains bright for Ohtani and New Balance.

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