Ohtani on the Brink of MLB History: Only 4 Home Runs and 3 Stolen Bases Away from 50/50

Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is making headlines as he pushes towards a historic achievement in Major League Baseball.

On Tuesday, Ohtani, Ohtani, batting as the leadoff designated hitter in the Dodgers’ home game against the Chicago Cubs, delivered a stellar performance. He went 2-for-4 at the plate with 1 walk, 2 runs scored, and 1 stolen base, bringing his season total to 47 steals. Ohtani is now on the verge of becoming the first player in MLB history to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.

Ohtani’s hitting was on full display during the game. In the 3rd inning, he reached base on a walk and promptly stole second base. Just a week after swiping three bases in a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on September 3, he added another steal to his tally. With 46 home runs and 47 stolen bases so far, Ohtani needs just 4 more homers and 3 additional steals in the remaining 19 games to hit this unprecedented milestone.

Despite Ohtani’s personal success, the Dodgers lost to the Cubs 4-10, ending the game on a disappointing note. However, Ohtani’s performance continues to generate significant anticipation among fans.

Throughout this season, he has maintained consistent performance, establishing himself as a cornerstone player for the team. His outstanding play solidifies his status as an icon in Major League Baseball, regardless of the Dodgers’ game results.

In addition to his on-field success, Ohtani is also making waves in the National League MVP race. According to MLB.com’s mock MVP voting results, Ohtani received 28 first-place votes, placing him ahead of Francisco Lindor (New York Mets), who received 9 first-place votes, to claim the top spot.

In the American League MVP mock voting, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees, who has hit 51 home runs, secured the top spot with 31 first-place votes, but Ohtani’s performance still positions him as a top candidate for the MVP title.