Shohei Ohtani: A Historic Signing Influenced by Kobe Bryant's Legacy

 

Steven Taylor LA

The signing of Shohei Ohtani by the Dodgers has presented an unprecedented historical moment for L.A.’s sports scene that wouldn’t have been possible without a certain fallen star named Kobe Bryant. With a signing like this, taking the Dodgers closer to their dream of winning another World Series championship, it couldn’t be anything but invested with some measure of LA legend.

The Dodgers also nabbed Shohei Ohtani, who agreed to the largest contract in all of professional sports — 10 years for $700 million. Other teams fell over themselves trying to land him and have now been left missing huge pieces they could no longer afford as a result. A recorded video message from Kobe Bryant is one of the most important factors influencing Ohtani’s decision to join the Dodgers. The 2017 video created as a favor to the Dodgers proved to be vital during recruitment.

Kobe Bryant, using the Mamba Mentality in a video response to Ohtani, implored him to join his fellow Angelenos on the other side of Hill Street. Ohtani was particularly struck by his message, which focused on seeking greatness and the satisfaction of finding yourself standing atop a trampled wave. Ohtani, of course never personally met Bryant. But the departed basketball great’s words have had an indelible impact on Ohtani, so much that it contributed to his signing with the Dodgers.

The structure of the contract is itself noteworthy. Ohtani’s $70 million salary figures prominently in this regard, and a large chunk-68 percent of the figure shape calmly well be deferred. It will not actually appear as income until 2034 to 2043. This deferral strategy not only reflects their financial wisdom, but also display their concern about raising a strong team for the long term.

Ohtani getting with the Dodgers isn’t just a signature. It is an expression of goals. Ohtani’s extraordinary skills in both pitching and hitting make him a distinctive dynamic force for the team. But because he had elbow surgery last September, it means that he won’t be pitching for the Dodgers until the 2025 season. During this time his bat won’t hurt the team a bit.

Moreover, the unique structure of Ohtani’s contract is crucial in the Dodgers ‘short-term strategy for competition. The Dodgers’ clever trick has been to defer a sizable portion of Ohtani’s income — they have essentially done this by saying, ‘Don’t worry about all the zeros! Please give us until 2017.’ In a game with checkbooks, this savvy financial jiu-jitsu is critical. Controlling payroll can be the difference between winning championships and struggling to stay competitive from year to year (or even bankruptcy).

It is a strategic masterstroke in two respects. First, it gives the Dodgers more room to sign other big-league players right now; that ameliorates their team in the near future. Given that the team is clearly in ‘win now’ mode, one of its major points for consideration must be whether it can bring new talent on board without blowing up the current payroll.

And secondly, this is a structure of long-term vision. The Angels’ deferred payouts due to Ohtani will have a day their reckoning, but for now the team is geared toward this championship window. As such, this way of doing things shows the Dodgers ‘determination not only to win in present, but also coast safely into an even tomorrow. That deferral gives the Dodgers a chance to have two objectives — winning titles now, and leaving open their future financial flexibility.

In a sense, Ohtani’s contract is the perfect combination of an urgent high-pressure drive for success and wise long-term monetary calculation. It is the product of the Dodgers’ highly advanced methodology for building a ball club in today ‘game.

Kobe Bryant’s legacy pervades this signing to an incalculable extent. Over three years after his untimely death, Bryant’s passion and devotion to being the best still reach out beyond basketball courts everywhere. his role in attracting Ohtani is another illustration of the continuing influence he has on Los Angeles sports.

The Dodgers’ acquisition of Ohtani reflects Kobe Bryant ‘legacy and direction given by a planned financial strategy, a special moment in the team’s history. A tribute to one of the city’s most beloved athletes, its very existence also reflects their ambition on winning a World Series. The echoes of Bryant in the air As Ohtani readies to don the uniform of a Los Angeles Dodger, all prepares for another championship run. -Steven Taylor Los Angeles, CA


Originally published at https://steventaylorlandlord.medium.com on December 28, 2023.

In the Heart of the City: Los Angeles and Its Unbreakable Bond with Sports

 

Steven Taylor LA

Los Angeles – a city that shines not only for its Hollywood fame but also for its fervent love of sports. This sprawling metropolis becomes a melting pot of cheers, tears, and triumphs as the city’s teams take the field, court, and ice, weaving a tapestry of community and camaraderie through sports.

The Lakers: A Legacy of Greatness

The Los Angeles Lakers are not just a team; they are an institution representing the pinnacle of basketball prowess. The Lakers’ history is a parade of legends, from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's skyhook to Shaquille O'Neal's dominating presence and LeBron James' current reign. The Staples Center, a hallowed ground for Lakers fans, is where memories are made and legacies are born. It’s where the city’s pulse beats the loudest, echoing with the history of past glories and the promise of future triumphs.

Dodgers: America's Pastime, LA's Heartbeat

Baseball in Los Angeles is embodied by the Dodgers The team’s storied history, from Brooklyn to LA, mirrors the city’s own journey of growth and change. Dodger Stadium is not just a venue; it’s a summer sanctuary for families, friends, and fans who find joy in the crack of the bat and the thrill of a home run. The Dodgers have become a symbol of LA's resilience and spirit, bridging generations and communities in their shared love for the game.

Rams and Chargers: Gridiron Grit in the City of Angels

The Rams and Chargers represent the city’s rekindled love affair with the NFL. The Rams' return to Los Angeles and the Chargers' relocation brought a new wave of excitement. Fans adorn themselves in team colors, transforming the SoFi Stadium into a sea of passionate supporters every game day. These teams have reinvigorated football in LA, bringing with them a spirit of competition and community that resonates throughout the city.

Kings and Ducks: Ice Battles in the Sun-Soaked City

The LA Kings and Anaheim Ducks have carved an unlikely niche for ice hockey in a city known for its sunshine and beaches. The Kings’ journey from underdogs to two-time Stanley Cup champions is a story of resilience that mirrors the city’s own ethos. Similarly, the Ducks have cultivated a loyal fan base, bringing the thrill of hockey to the heart of Southern California. These teams have turned LA into a surprising hotspot for hockey, uniting fans in their shared passion for the game.

LAFC and Galaxy: A City United by Soccer

The emergence of LAFC and the legacy of the LA Galaxy have marked Los Angeles as a rising soccer city. The rivalry between these two teams is fierce, reflecting the city's diverse and dynamic nature. Whether it’s the star-studded Galaxy or the grassroots charisma of LAFC, soccer has found a fervent following in LA. The atmosphere in their stadiums is electric, a melting pot of cultures and communities brought together by their love for soccer.

UCLA and USC: Collegiate Pride and Rivalry

The rivalry between UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans transcends sports; it’s a part of Los Angeles’ identity. The competition between these two storied institutions is fierce, whether it’s on the gridiron, the basketball court, or the track. This rivalry is more than just games; it's a battle for city-wide bragging rights, a showcase of young talent, and a source of pride for students, alumni, and locals alike.

The Bond That Unites

Sports in Los Angeles are a unifying force, a common language spoken across the city's diverse neighborhoods. Every game is an opportunity for people from all walks of life to come together, to share in the highs and lows, the victories, and defeats. This bond goes beyond fandom; it's about community, about finding a common ground in the love for a team, a player, or a memorable play.

The Impact Beyond the Game

Los Angeles sports teams have become pillars of the community, extending their influence beyond the arenas and into the heart of the city. From charity initiatives to youth programs, these teams understand their role in shaping the city's future. They inspire, engage, and contribute, playing sports an integral part of the city’s social fabric.

A City Defined by Its Passion for Sports

As the sun sets over the Pacific, casting a golden hue over the city, the lights of stadiums and arenas across Los Angeles flicker to life. In those moments, the city unites, transcending differences, bound by a common love for their teams. Los Angeles is more than just a city; it's a community brought together by an unbreakable bond with its sports teams – a relationship that continues to define and shape its identity. Steven Taylor, Los Angeles

The Dynamic Duo: Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal's Era with the Los Angeles Lakers

 

Image credits to https://wallpapercave.com/kobe-and-shaq-wallpapers

Introduction

In the annals of basketball history, few pairings have been as electrifying, dominant, and unforgettable as Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal during their tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers. Between 1996 and 2004, the duo ruled the NBA, making headlines for their jaw-dropping plays, winning championships, and setting numerous records. Their partnership defined an era for the Lakers, a team steeped in history and tradition, as they led Los Angeles to new heights and earned their spots as legends in the basketball world.

The Initial Pairing: A Landmark Move

When the Lakers acquired 18-year-old Kobe Bryant in a trade shortly after the 1996 NBA Draft and signed Shaquille O'Neal as a free agent that same summer, it marked a turning point for the franchise. Bryant, a promising high school talent, brought with him an insatiable appetite for the game, while O'Neal, already a superstar with the Orlando Magic, was looking for a larger stage to showcase his skills. It was clear that the Lakers were determined to build a team capable of championship glory.

Complementary Skills, Dazzling Plays

The two players had styles that seemed almost perfectly designed to complement each other. Shaq, a 7'1" behemoth, dominated the paint, drawing double- and triple-teams from opponents desperate to find a way to stop him. This created opportunities for Kobe, who possessed an unrivaled ability to drive to the basket or shoot from the perimeter. The duo was unstoppable, as evidenced by their frequent highlight-reel plays that left fans and analysts alike in awe.

The Championships: A Dynasty is Born

The Bryant-O'Neal duo reached the pinnacle of their collaborative efforts by winning three consecutive NBA Championships from 2000 to 2002. Under the guidance of coaching legend Phil Jackson, the LA Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers in the 2000 NBA Finals, battled through a tough series against the Philadelphia 76ers in 2001, and dismantled the New Jersey Nets in 2002. During these runs, both players were at their best; Shaq earned the NBA Finals MVP in all three years, and Kobe provided some of the most iconic moments in Finals history.

The Unforgettable Moments

Who can forget Kobe's alley-oop to Shaq in Game 7 of the 2000 Western Conference Finals against the Portland Trail Blazers? The play, often simply referred to as "The Lob," epitomized the electric synergy between the two stars. It sealed the win for the Lakers and propelled them into the NBA Finals, setting the stage for their first championship together.

Or what about the 2001 NBA Finals, where Kobe and Shaq combined for an average of nearly 60 points per game? These moments are etched into the memories of basketball fans around the globe, showcasing the extraordinary talents of both players and their innate ability to work together when it mattered most.

Legacy

The Kobe-Shaq era brought a level of excitement and success to the Lakers that fans still reminisce about to this day. Their impact on the game has been monumental, influencing future generations of players who aspire to achieve similar greatness. The jerseys of both players now hang in the rafters of the Staples Center, immortalizing their contributions to the team and the sport.

While both have moved on—Kobe tragically passing away in 2020 and Shaq enjoying a successful career in broadcasting and business—their legacy as one of the greatest duos in NBA history remains unblemished. Their contributions to the Lakers organization, the city of Los Angeles, and the game of basketball are indelible and will be cherished forever.

The partnership between Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal stands as a golden chapter in the illustrious history of the Los Angeles Lakers. Together, they crafted an enduring legacy of excellence, providing fans with memories that will last a lifetime. While each went on to have success separately, their time together on the Lakers exemplifies teamwork, greatness, and the indomitable spirit of competition. The Kobe-Shaq era will forever be a shining example of what can be achieved when two of the game's greatest players join forces to strive for basketball immortality.

Steven Taylor on Professional Baseball History in Los Angeles

 

Superhero Family Steven Taylor and family celebrate in Los Angeles

Superhero Family Steven Taylor and family celebrate in Los Angeles

The Greater Los Angeles area is home to a rich world of professional sports. LA is one of only four metropolitan areas in the country to boast two major league baseball teams, making the sport even more popular amongst Angelenos. In Los Angeles, we have the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League, and the Los Angeles Angels and in the American League. Southern California locals, like Steven Taylor Los Angeles native, take advantage of the weather and spend time at both Dodgers Stadium and Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Let’s take a look at the history of these two great teams and how they have impacted the LA area.

The Dodgers

Like a few other professional sports teams in Los Angeles, The Dodgers are transplants to the area. The team was originally founded in Brooklyn, New York in 1883, and adopted the team name “Dodgers” in 1932. Back in 1958, the team made the cross-country move to LA before their season, and played at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before moving into their long-term and current home, Dodger Stadium in 1962. The Dodgers are credited for leading the geographic expansion of baseball west of the Mississippi.

The Dodgers are a historically innovative team. Not only did they lead baseball to the west coast, they also broke the color barrier, with the first black athlete to play in the MLB, Jackie Robinson. The team played the first televised baseball game as well, and even were first to introduce the batting helmet.

The Dodgers have since won seven World Series and twenty-four National League pennants. The team boasts the record of eighteen Rookie of the Year Award winners, which is twice as many as the runner up. LA locals and fans like Steven Taylor are looking forward to the MLB All-Star Game, set to be hosted by the Dodgers, along with the Angels, in 2022.

The Los Angeles Angels

The Los Angeles Angels are another pride point for Angelenos — the team was established as an expansion team in 1961 by Gene Autry. But, the team’s roots go deeper, with their very first appearance dating back to 1892, when the Los Angeles Seraphs began playing as part of the original California League. The following year, the team changed their name to the Angels, but many still referred to them as the Seraphs for quite some time.

Back in 1893, the Angels played at Athletic Park, where they made history with the Stockton Pirates as the first teams to play a night game on the West Coast. ( The Angels won the 9pm game, with a score of 5–2) The MLB didn’t hold a night game until years later in 1935.

In the beginning of the Gene Autry years, the Angels played home games at Los Angeles Wrigley Field, before moving in 1962 to Dodger Stadium where they were tenants of the Dodgers until 1965. They moved to their current home, Angel Stadium in Anaheim, in 1966. Despite the short drive, many people from Los Angeles like Steven Taylor are happy to head to Anaheim to support the LA team.

The Angels won their only American League pennant and World Series by defeating the San Francisco Giants in 2002. The team has a variety of other awards including MVP awards, CY Young Awards, and Rookie of the Year winners.

Originally published at https://www.reddit.com.