Shohei Ohtani made history on Thursday by becoming the first player in Major League Baseball to achieve over 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. This remarkable feat came during an extraordinary game against the Miami Marlins, where he hit three home runs and stole two bases.
Ohtani’s impressive performance included hitting his 49th home run in the sixth inning, his 50th in the seventh, and his 51st in the ninth. He concluded the game with an astounding 6 for 6 at-bat, driving in 10 RBIs and marking another record as the first player to have three home runs and two stolen bases in a game.
“It was something I wanted to get over as quickly as possible. And, you know, it’s something that I’m going to cherish for a very long time,” Ohtani expressed in a televised interview.
Playing at LoanDepot Park, he launched two of his home runs into the second deck of right-center field. His 49th home run traveled 438 feet off a slider from George Soriano. Later, he hit a two-run shot to left for his 50th against Marlins reliever Mike Baumann, followed by a majestic 440-foot three-run homer in the ninth.
The Dodgers dominated the game, winning 20-4, which secured their 12th consecutive playoff appearance.
“To be honest, I’m the one probably most surprised,” Ohtani admitted. “I have no idea where this came from, but I’m glad that it was going well today.”
In addition to his power hitting, Ohtani successfully stole his 50th base in the first inning and his 51st in the second, breaking the Dodgers’ franchise record of 49 home runs previously set by Shawn Green in 2001. He became the third player in MLB history to record at least six hits, three home runs, and 10 RBIs in a game.
Ohtani has not been caught on his last 28 stolen base attempts and reached the 50-50 milestone in just 150 games. Previously, he was the fastest player to achieve 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a season.
This season, Ohtani has focused solely on hitting as he recovers from elbow surgery. He signed a $700 million, 10-year deal with the Dodgers last December after spending six years with the Los Angeles Angels.
Dedication to preparation has been vital for his success, as he frequently collaborates with the team’s hitting coaches and studies video of opposing pitchers.
“He works harder than anybody,” said Dodgers catcher Will Smith. “He scouts really hard. He’s playing a different game so it’s fun to see.”
Ohtani’s increased base-stealing efforts have led him to this historic milestone, but it remains to be seen how he will adapt when he returns to pitching. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke about Ohtani’s offensive performances this season and the uncertainty surrounding future stolen bases when he resumes his pitcher duties.
As the Dodgers prepare for the postseason, Ohtani could also be in the running for National League MVP, a title never previously awarded to a player primarily serving as a designated hitter. If successful, it would mark Ohtani’s third career MVP award as he continues to capture attention with his remarkable talent on the field.