Oakley Signs Shohei Ohtani, Will Launch Signature Eyewear Collection

Shohei Ohtani will have his own signature eyewear series after partnering with Oakley. The Los Angeles Angels pitcher and designated hitter signed with the California-based eyewear brand and the two will release the Shohei Ohtani Collection in mid-July.

The series, which was designed in collaboration with the 25-year-old Japanese baseball star, includes the Oakley Radar EV Path, Frogskins Lite and Mercenary. The Radar EV Path and Frogskins Lite are meant to honor Ohtani’s heritage by featuring traditional Japanese patterns. The Frogskins Lite also include “Ohtani” printed on the inside of the frame. All three styles use Prizm lens technology and come in a signature Ohtani microbag.

“No matter what you play and at what level you play it, having the right equipment is key,” Ohtani says. The baseball player, entering his third year in Major League Baseball, says Oakley has technological innovations that he plans to use on the field. He will also wear Oakley off the field.

“Just three years after arriving in the United States, Shohei Ohtani has become one of the brightest stars in baseball,” says Ben Goss, Oakley global marketing director. “We work closely with our athletes to create new products with the technological advancements they need to perform, and we are excited to support Ohtani’s growth as both a player and team Oakley athlete.”

Oakley already has Super Bowl Champion and NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes and New York Yankees standout Aaron Judge signed to the brand.

Tim Newcomb covers gear and business for Baseball America. Follow him on Twitter at @tdnewcomb.