PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers are known rivals on the field, but off it, the competition can give way to moments that tell a different story — like the one between Geraldo Perdomo and Shohei Ohtani.

Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani (17) steals second base against Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop Geraldo Perdomo (2) in the seventh inning at Chase Field on Sept. 2, 2024, in Phoenix. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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Speaking on the Abriendo Sports podcast this week, Perdomo gave his flowers to Ohtani and what he has accomplished over the past several years. While they wear different uniforms, respect is all the Diamondbacks shortstop has for the Dodgers superstar.

“Ohtani’s my brother,” Perdomo said. “That guy is out of this league, Ohtani’s out of this league.” (Translated from Spanish to English)

Sep 25, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) at bat in the seventh inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images

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Perdomo shared a story involving the reigning National League MVP from last season, detailing an exchange that highlighted both competition and camaraderie. After picking up a few Japanese phrases from a team trainer, Perdomo approached Ohtani and asked him for a signed bat.

“He understood,” Perdomo recalled. “And he said, ‘If I win and get you out.’”

The Diamondbacks ultimately won the game, with Perodmo hitting the walk-off hit in the victory against Los Angeles. Despite “losing” the bet, Perdomo continued to express his awe for Ohtani’s elite talent.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani (17) throws to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first inning at Chase Field in Phoenix on Sept. 23, 2025. © Rob Schumacher / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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Ohtani doesn’t just paint corners, but also has a blazing fastball that can hit 100 mph. With a mixed arsenal at his disposal, hitters are left guessing all the time.

“I was shocked when Vladdy hit a home run against him, and Vladdy is Vladdy,” Perdomo said, referring to Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. “With runners on base, he’s quick to the plate. Your timing has to be quick.”

Perdomo’s comments reflect the intersection of rivalry and admiration that has come to define Ohtani’s presence in MLB. Even as division rivals who play high-intensity games each year at Chase Field and Dodger Stadium, moments like these show how players balance competition with mutual respect through friendly banter and bets.

Aug 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Geraldo Perdomo scores in the first inning triple against the Cincinnati Reds at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Ohtani’s reach is global. Often portrayed as serious and businesslike, he continues to leave an impact far beyond the field. Even without frequent trips to the desert, being part of a story that connects Arizona to the Dominican Republic underscores how his influence stretches across cultures and borders.

While Perdomo may not have his signed Ohtani bat — yet — his respect for the reigning NL MVP serves as a reminder that baseball rivalries often transcend competition and ultimately give way to admiration.

“What Ohtani does, no one else does,” Perdomo said. “As long as he’s playing and keeps putting up the numbers he does, nobody’s going to win an MVP. No one.”

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*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde