Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani is garnering attention not just for his pitching skills but also for his remarkable hitting achievements. Ohtani, the sixth pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) history to achieve 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases, has set his sights on surpassing even this milestone. As of this season, he is the first pitcher ever to reach the “45-45” and “50-50” benchmarks, with the latter remaining a daunting goal.
Ohtani’s pursuit of the “50-50” record comes during a crucial period for the Dodgers, who are competing fiercely for the division championship and the highest winning percentage in the league. The pressure to prioritize team success over personal achievements is palpable, as Ohtani and his team navigate a competitive landscape. Historical data reveals that only two players who reached the “40-40” milestone—Jose Canseco in 1988 and Ronald Acuña Jr. last year—were part of championship-winning teams, underscoring the rarity of such achievements in the context of team success.
Recent reports indicate that Ohtani’s batting average has declined since early August, attributed to encounters with strong opponents and top-tier pitchers. Despite this, his remaining schedule presents a viable opportunity for him to push towards the “50-50” mark. The Dodgers’ upcoming fixtures include 15 home games out of 31 and matchups against teams with below .500 winning percentages. Additionally, Ohtani’s consistent placement as the leadoff hitter, coupled with support from right-handed slugger Mookie Betts, may enhance his chances of reaching the milestone.
The introduction of the “base expansion” rule last year, which contributed to Acuña’s historic “40-70” season, has added new dynamics to base-stealing and power-hitting records. With Ohtani’s ongoing performance, fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see if he can set a new record while leading the Dodgers in their quest for their first National League Triple Crown in 87 years.
Credit: Yahoo! Japan