Shohei Ohtani, the superstar player with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been on a mission to break records and set new standards in Major League Baseball (MLB). In his first season with the Dodgers, Ohtani achieved the remarkable feat of joining the 40/40 club, becoming only the sixth player in MLB history to do so. This achievement came after a game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Aug. 23, where Ohtani stole a base and hit a walk-off grand slam. Previously, the last player to reach the 40/40 milestone was Ronald Acuna Jr. in 2023. Ohtani’s performance in the 2024 season also marked him as the first player in MLB history to hit 46 home runs and steal 46 bases in a single season, a remarkable accomplishment that solidifies his place in baseball history.
With the MLB regular season coming to a close on Sept. 29, all eyes are on Ohtani’s pursuit of hitting 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases in a single season. Currently, Ohtani has hit a career-high of 47 home runs, tying him with Cody Bellinger for the third-most home runs in a season in Dodgers history. Additionally, Ohtani’s exceptional performance has also led to unique moments in franchise history, such as hitting four home runs in the opening inning, a first-time achievement for the Dodgers. His combination of power and speed on the basepaths has led to his inclusion in the record books alongside legendary players like Rickey Henderson.
A Season of Milestones for Ohtani
Throughout the 2024 season, Ohtani has continued to reach significant milestones that showcase his all-around skills as a player. His impressive 46th home run was a towering shot that traveled 450 feet, marking his ninth homer of such distance this season. Ohtani also reached 100 RBIs in 2024, matching his personal best from 2021. His ability to consistently hit for power and drive in runs has been a crucial factor in the Dodgers’ success this season.
One aspect that sets Ohtani apart from other players is his ability to maintain a high level of performance month after month. In games against the Diamondbacks, Ohtani stole three bases in one game, a rare achievement that highlights his exceptional speed and baserunning instincts. Moreover, Ohtani’s consistency at the plate is evident in his knack for hitting leadoff home runs and contributing both offensively and defensively to his team’s success.
Ohtani’s impact on the Dodgers goes beyond the individual statistics and records he has set throughout the season. His ability to come through in clutch situations, such as hitting a walk-off grand slam against the Rays, demonstrates his composure under pressure and his importance to the team’s success. Whether it’s a crucial stolen base or a game-changing home run, Ohtani’s contributions on the field have been instrumental in the Dodgers’ quest for postseason glory.
Shohei Ohtani’s journey with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of extraordinary. From historic achievements like joining the 40/40 club to setting new records for home runs and stolen bases, Ohtani has proven himself to be a once-in-a-generation talent. As the regular season comes to a close, fans and analysts alike eagerly await to see what other milestones Ohtani will accomplish and how far he can lead the Dodgers in their pursuit of a championship.