MLB Network to celebrate 'Shohei Day' with full day of programming this Wednesday, Jan. 7 beginning at 9 a.m. ET

By | January 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026 – MLB Network will celebrate one of the most dynamic and impactful players in baseball history with “Shohei Day,” a full day of Shohei Ohtani-focused programming this Wednesday, Jan. 7, beginning at 9 a.m. ET/6 a.m. PT. The network-wide tribute takes place on 1.7 in recognition of Ohtani’s iconic No. 17, which he has worn since breaking into the Majors in 2018. Some of Ohtani’s most memorable games, special studio segments, guest appearances and original storytelling will be featured across MLB Network’s daily shows and social media platforms. A teaser of the day’s programming on the global sensation can be viewed here.

One of the most unique talents the sport has ever seen, Ohtani has redefined what is possible on a baseball field, capturing fans' attention around the world as a dominant force on the mound and at the plate. To date, Ohtani is a two-time World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a four-time unanimous Most Valuable Player Award winner and a four-time AP Male Athlete of the Year.

Anchoring the day’s programming are two of Ohtani’s greatest performances, including Sept. 19, 2024, when Ohtani became the first player in Major League history to join the 50/50 Club at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT. Game 4 of the 2025 National League Championship Series will air at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, featuring an astonishing display of two-way excellence in which Ohtani delivered 10 strikeouts on the mound while going 3-for-3 with three home runs.

Throughout the day, MLB Network’s Hot Stove (10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT) and MLB Tonight (5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT) will feature Ohtani-focused analysis and storytelling including “Greg’s List,” where MLB Network host Greg Amsinger spotlights Ohtani’s greatest career moments, as well as an in-depth Chris Young breakdown examining Ohtani’s evolution into a generational talent.

The celebration culminates with “Best of Shohei,” an original two-hour special airing at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, featuring extended half-innings and full sequences from the most memorable moments of Ohtani’s career. The special will offer fans an immersive look into the performances that define Ohtani’s place in baseball history.

“Shohei Day” programming highlights, which will stream on MLB.TV and in the MLB App as part of MLB Network’s Direct-To-Consumer offering, is as follows:

*All Times ET/PT

More from MLB.com