The world of Major League Baseball was recently reminded of a stunning act of generosity from its biggest star. Shohei Ohtani, during his high-profile free agency in late 2023, gifted a luxurious silver Porsche valued at over $100,000 to Ashley Kelly, the wife of then-teammate and pitcher Joe Kelly. The story, which first emerged last winter, has captured fresh attention after MLB reposted the original clip on Instagram this week.
The Winter 2023 Gesture That Stunned Fans
This grand gesture took place in December 2023, a pivotal time when Ohtani was deciding his future after leaving the Los Angeles Angels. Ashley Kelly had been a vocal supporter of the Dodgers' efforts to sign the two-way phenomenon. She even launched a playful online campaign and, in a significant move, facilitated her husband Joe's switch from his jersey number 17 to clear it for Ohtani's potential arrival.
In a surprising turn, Ohtani presented Ashley with the keys to a brand-new silver Porsche. The extravagant gift left the baseball community in awe, highlighting a unique bond formed during the recruitment process. Ashley Kelly's recent Instagram post, featuring a fresh photo of the car, confirms the lasting joy it brings. "If you were wondering, I still chuckle or smile every time I open this car’s door to drive it," she wrote, expressing gratitude to Ohtani and her husband.
From Free Agency to World Series Glory
The timeline of events moved rapidly after the gift. Just days later, Shohei Ohtani made his monumental decision, signing a historic 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Joe Kelly officially changed his number to 99, later telling ESPN that he would only give up his number for a potential future Hall of Famer like Ohtani.
The 2024 season culminated in the ultimate success for the Kelly family and the Dodgers. In October 2024, Ashley celebrated her husband becoming a "3X WORLD SERIES CHAMPION" as the Dodgers clinched the title. However, a new chapter began soon after when Joe Kelly announced his retirement from MLB on December 31, 2024, following 13 remarkable seasons.
A Lasting Memory Beyond the Diamond
While Joe Kelly's playing career has concluded, the silver Porsche remains a sparkling symbol of a memorable intersection of lives. Ashley Kelly's posts reflect a family embracing new beginnings, from beach photos in Maui to heartfelt reflections on her husband's career. The resurgence of this story showcases the human connections that often form behind the high-stakes negotiations of professional sports.
Ohtani's grand gesture, made before he was officially a Dodger, is now etched as a legendary footnote in his Los Angeles saga. It serves as a reminder that beyond the record-breaking contracts and on-field heroics, acts of kindness and appreciation create the most enduring memories for those involved in the game.
