The Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Dodgers now share more than just LA—they’re tied by ownership under Mark Walter, whose Dodgers success and now record‑setting acquisition of the storied Lakers franchise ($10 billion) has created a unique Los Angeles sports crossover.
In the midst of the buzz, Lakers fans began joking that Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani should suit up in purple and gold. Ohtani, MLB's biggest star and fresh off an NL MVP and World Series title, is having another outstanding season. With the new acquisition, many Lakers fans wasted no time posting graphics of him donning a Lakers jersey.
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17).
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17).
Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
The lighthearted speculation quickly made waves, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts weighed in during Wednesday’s press conference before LA’s game against the San Diego Padres.
“Hands off of Shohei” he said with a grin. “They got enough superstars wearing the purple and gold. Leave him alone.”
When asked if Ohtani could play basketball, Roberts dodged the question—adding that they already have Japanese star Rui Hachimura on the Lakers and that Ohtani can “hold things down on the baseball side.”
Fans quickly took to social media to react to Roberts' message:
“Sorry, @LakersNation, Shohei Ohtani is off limits ð¤£,” a Dodgers fan wrote.
“Lol, I want to see Shohei join the NBA too lol,” another fan remarked.
“We know Shohei is a two‑way player, how about two sports? ð¤£,” another fan responded.
“But he looks great in purple and gold!!!!” another fan noted.
“I feel relieved,” a fan said sarcastically.
Since acquiring the Dodgers in 2012, Walter has helped the franchise to two World Series titles, and will now hope to replicate the same success with a Lakers franchise already renowned for winning titles.