The Los Angeles Dodgers are prominently featured in the 2025 ESPY Awards nominations, with Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman recognized in several major categories ahead of the ceremony at The Dolby Theatre on Wednesday night. The Dodgers are also nominated for Best Team, an award that honors championship winners from across major professional and collegiate sports leagues.
Ohtani is nominated for Best Athlete in the Men’s Sports category, competing against notable athletes including Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Last year, Ohtani placed second in this category, trailing Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Ohtani’s Bid to Join Elite Multiple ESPYS Winners
Shohei Ohtani’s nomination reflects his continued dominance as a two-way baseball star, having won the Best MLB Player award the past four years. A win this year for Best Athlete in Men’s Sports would place Ohtani among distinguished company, joining LeBron James, Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods, and Mahomes as athletes who have earned this honor multiple times.
Freddie Freeman, recognized for his 2024 World Series MVP performance, is nominated for Best Championship Performance. His competitors are Simone Biles for her achievements at the 2024 Olympics, Steph Curry’s leadership during the US Men’s Olympic Basketball Team’s gold medal game, and Rory McIlroy for his first Masters victory.
Other Prominent MLB Players Included in Nominations
In addition to Ohtani and Freeman, Tarik Skubal and Aaron Judge are nominees for Best MLB Player, underscoring the strength of Major League Baseball’s standout performers in this year’s awards.
Freeman will be in attendance for the ceremony, which celebrates top athletes and memorable performances from the past year.
Details for Viewing the 2025 ESPYS Ceremony
The ESPYS will be broadcast live on ABC at 5 p.m. and hosted for the first time by comedian Shane Gillis. Fans can also stream the ceremony on demand the following day through Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
This event will highlight significant moments from the last year, honor leading figures in sports, and unite fans and athletes across the industry.
ESPYS Impact Beyond the Awards
Each year, the ESPYs contribute to the V Foundation for Cancer Research, founded by ESPN and the late basketball coach Jim Valvano, helping raise funds and awareness for cancer research. The ceremony thus combines celebration with a commitment to a meaningful cause.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Shohei Ohtani the only 50/50?
A. Shohei Ohtani is the sole person in the 50/50 club.