Shohei Ohtani Wins Third Career MVP Award with Record-Breaking Performance
Shohei Ohtani has claimed his third BBWAA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s all-time greats. The Japanese superstar made history in the 2024 MLB season, becoming the first player ever to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season—a feat that underscores his unprecedented versatility and dominance.
Ohtani’s Stellar Debut with the Dodgers
In his first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, following a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, Ohtani exceeded every expectation. Dominating the National League (NL), he led in critical stats, including:
- WAR: 9.2
- Runs scored: 134
- Home runs: 54
- RBIs: 130
- On-base percentage: .390
- Slugging percentage: .646
- OPS: 1.036
One unforgettable highlight came in a game against the Miami Marlins, where Ohtani went 6-for-6 with three home runs, cementing it as one of the most remarkable single-game performances in MLB history.
A Historic MVP Achievement
Ohtani’s third MVP win places him in elite company. He became the first full-time designated hitter to win the award and joined Frank Robinson as the only players to earn MVP honors in both the American League (AL) and National League (NL).
Even more impressively, Ohtani is the first player ever to secure three unanimous MVP selections, further establishing his legacy. This also marks the Dodgers’ first MVP winner since Cody Bellinger in 2019.
Humble Words of Gratitude
Following the award announcement, Ohtani expressed heartfelt thanks to his teammates:
“This MVP represents the Dodgers. It was a complete team effort. I wouldn’t have received this honor without them.”
The announcement, delivered by teammate Clayton Kershaw, the 2014 MVP winner, was an emotional moment filled with celebration.
Looking Ahead to Future Milestones
As Ohtani recovers from his second major elbow surgery, his determination to continue breaking barriers remains unwavering. His record-shattering 2024 season has not only raised the bar for individual achievement in baseball but also set the stage for even greater accomplishments in the years to come.
Shohei Ohtani is not just a player—he is a phenomenon, rewriting the narrative of what’s possible in Major League Baseball.