Chris Russo SLAMMED for shocking ‘atomic bomb’ reference about Japan star Shohei Ohtani’s approach to free agency in a two-minute, WWII-themed rant on First Take: ‘He’s gone too far’

ESPN First Take co-host Chris Russo has sparked outrage by referencing the atomic bomb in a rant criticizing Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani.

Ohtani is currently in free agency after a sensational last season in the MLB with the Los Angeles Angels and is being cited by some as being worth a $600 million contract because of his pitching and hitting skills.

The 29-year-old has kept his cards close to his chest during negotiations and while there are a number of teams that would be happy to sign him, Ohtani's own preferences are unclear. He is known as a deeply private person.

Much to the chagrin of Russo, nicknamed “Mad Dog,” when he addressed one of baseball's biggest talking points on Wednesday with a deeply insensitive analogy.

“The fact that we're even discussing this is a complete joke,” Russo shouted as co-host Stephen A. Smith remained silent. “This Ohtani scenario is a lottery: Did you know that when he won the MVP, he wouldn't even tell you his dog's name? Because he had his dog there when he won the American League MVP.

“Anyone who pays Ohtani $600 million should have their head examined anyway. He won't pitch next year (after surgery on his right elbow – his throwing arm – in September). He is a DH (designated hitter).

'And what's the big secret? Jeez, he's a free agent. He's talked to six teams: Giants, meeting with the Blue Jays, Cubs are in the mix, the Angels. What is this, the atomic bomb? Can't we find out?

'This is baseball! He's a celebrity! This is what it's about. This is stupid, that if you reveal that you had breakfast with Ohtani, you should somehow be thrown out with the bathwater.”

During World War II, the United States dropped two atomic bombs on Japan, killing more than 200,000 people.

He continued with another reference to World War II: “The idea that we should treat this like the Tehran peace talks in World War II is ridiculous – when Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill came together. It drives me absolutely crazy.'

The clip of Russo's rant quickly circulated on social media and many fans felt uncomfortable with his comments.

“Absolutely wild to mention the nuke when talking about a Japanese player,” said one fan on X.

Another wrote in response: 'He's gone too far. this should not be accepted.”

Another fan said: 'The atomic bomb? What a strange reference to bring up when discussing the most prolific Japanese athlete in the US right now.

“It's just nonsense, anyway. One of the worst clips this show has produced.'

Russo, 64, has not yet responded to criticism of his comments.