MLB Network's Jon Morosi spoke with Tony Anderson about the energy surrounding the 2023 WBC and why fans are starting to take notice.

MIAMI — Shohei Ohtani was standing at the entrance of Japan’s clubhouse late Monday night, his heart still racing, his smile still beaming, still is trying to wrap his head around what just happened.

Ohtani, who’s eligible for free agency after the season, and risking perhaps $500 million simply by playing in the WBC, didn’t come all this way just to get a participation medal.

He’s here to win it all, adding to his credentials as Japan’s greatest treasure, and can’t wait to show the world what he can do on the biggest and grandest stage of his professional career.

Japan was trailing 3-0 in the seventh inning when Ohtani drew a two-out walk, bringing up Masataka Yoshida, the Boston Red Sox’s prized free-agent acquisition.

The entire sellout crowd of 35,933 at loanDepot Park sounded like they were yelling with Ohtani, rattling Mexico closer Giovanny Gallegos.