Shohei Otani beats a throw to second during a game at Dodger Stadium this year. He batted .310, with 54 home runs, 59 stolen bases and 130 runs batted in during the regular season
Is Shohei Ohtani on track to become one of the greatest baseball players of all time? Let's put his accomplishments this year into perspective. In the history of baseball, only 32 players have hit 50 home runs or more in a season, and 215 players have stolen 50 bases or more in a season. Ohtani is one of only three players to achieve both feats and the only one to do so in the same year. The average number of stolen bases by players who hit 50 home runs in an MLB season is 7.4, while the average number of home runs by players who steal 50 bases or more in an MLB season is 8.4.
In a recent post-game interview, Dave Roberts broke down Ohtani's approach and what he observed from a manager's point of view. "These last couple of games, he's locked in. To be able to cover that ball at the top of the zone, above the zone, and go to the big part of the field, like we've talked about, it's pretty spectacular."
Ohtani ended the regular season with 54 home runs, 59 stolen bases, having been caught stealing only four times this season. "Knowing him... he's probably aiming for 60-60," said Roberts a few weeks ago. "You never know with him."
Let's not forget that Ohtani is also a pitcher with a career ERA of 3.01, even though he hasn't pitched this year as he continues to work his way back from injury. Many wonder how much of the Dodgers' pitching woes would be alleviated if Ohtani were in the rotation this season.
The reality is that baseball has not witnessed the historical feats that Shohei Ohtani is showcasing. He appears to be one of a kind, with early indications of his impact reminiscent of those who have single-handedly transformed their respective sports. Ohtani could be compared to what Michael Jordan was to basketball, Tom Brady to football, Lionel Messi to soccer, Serena Williams to tennis, Jack Nicklaus to golf, and Wayne Gretzky to hockey.
One significant achievement that eludes Ohtani in his illustrious career thus far is a postseason appearance and a World Series title. The Los Angeles Dodgers have already clinched a playoff berth and they will start the playoffs on Saturday. If Ohtani and the Dodgers can win the World Series this year, the gap between Ohtani and those considered the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) will narrow significantly. A championship could solidify his legacy and elevate him among the sport's legends.
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