Shohei Ohtani has joined the exclusive 40-40 club, achieving his 40th home run and 40th stolen base in a single season in just 129 team games. This remarkable feat makes him the sixth player ever to accomplish this milestone.
Ohtani’s historic 40th home run came in dramatic fashion with a walk-off grand slam against the Tampa Bay Rays, securing a victory for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Watch the incredible moment here:
This season marks the third time in four years that Ohtani has hit 40 or more home runs. While he previously slugged 46 and 44 homers in 2021 and 2023 respectively, his 40 stolen bases this year represent a career high. Ohtani’s aggressive baserunning has been a key factor in his quest for the 40-40 milestone.
Notably, Ohtani achieved the 40-40 milestone in the fewest team games in history. His exceptional performance has placed him at the top of the National League WAR leaderboard, despite primarily serving as a designated hitter this season.
As Ohtani continues his record-breaking season, speculation has arisen about his chances of securing the MVP title. While only two players, Acuña and Canseco, have won MVP in the same year they accomplished 40-40, Ohtani’s outstanding statistics make him a strong contender for the prestigious award.
Currently in the first year of his monumental 10-year, $700 million contract, Ohtani’s dominance on the field has solidified his status as a baseball superstar. With ongoing rehabilitation from elbow surgery, fans can anticipate his return to pitching in 2025.
The Dodgers’ recent victory over the Tampa Bay Rays improved their season record to 77-52, placing them at the top of the NL West division with a four-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
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