On November 21, 2024, Shohei Ohtani made baseball history once again by becoming the unanimous selection for the National League MVP award, marking his third MVP win overall. The Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter solidified his legacy with this accolade, having previously earned MVP honors twice as part of the American League with the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani’s achievement not only showcases his unparalleled talent but also makes him the second player ever to clinch the MVP award from both leagues, following the legendary Frank Robinson who did so back in the 1960s.
Ohtani’s unanimous win was no small feat; he swept all 30 first-place votes—a distinction he has now accomplished on three separate occasions. This makes him the only player to have won the MVP unanimously more than once, establishing him as one of the most formidable players of his generation. Throughout the league’s illustrious history, he joins the ranks of other unanimous victors like Barry Bonds and Albert Pujols, highlighting the rarity and significance of his accomplishment.
This year’s MVP announcement capped off a remarkable 2024 season for Ohtani, who not only demonstrated his incredible batting skills but also made remarkable strides on the basepaths. He became the first player ever to hit at least 50 home runs and steal 50 bases within the same season, achieving this historic milestone with 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases. His eye-popping performance on September 19 against the Miami Marlins, where he hit three home runs and stole two bases during the game, particularly stood out and exemplified his once-in-a-generation athletic prowess.
Despite missing the chance to pitch this season due to elbow surgery, Ohtani's batting accomplishments alone made him the standout player of the year. His final statistics featured career highs, including a .310 batting average, 130 RBIs, and an OPS of 1.036—positions he dominated throughout MLB. He also led the league with his standout performances, illustrating not only his individual prowess but also his significant contribution to his team’s success.
Ohtani’s magic didn’t stop with his personal accolades; he also played a pivotal role in leading the Dodgers to their second World Series title within five years. His postseason performance included clutch homers, particularly notable during the National League Championship Series, helping shape the Dodgers’ championship run. Although he faced challenges due to injuries during the World Series, his contribution remained influential, solidifying his status as both an MVP and championship hitter.
Entering his second season with the Dodgers, Ohtani is slated to return as both hitter and pitcher following shoulder surgery, presenting the potential for even more extraordinary achievements and possibly enhancing his legacy. The Dodgers are positioned to remain strong contenders, contributing to the anticipation of Ohtani’s next chapter on the left coast. If his 2024 season is any indication, the sky is the limit for this athletic sensation.
Indeed, Ohtani’s third MVP award at such a high level has ignited conversations among fans and analysts about his place within baseball history. He is now part of the exclusive group of 12 players who have ever won the MVP award at least three times. Ohtani is anticipated to continue pushing boundaries and rewriting the record books as he moves forward.
With the 2024 season now officially recognized, it’s safe to say baseball fans can fully appreciate the season Ohtani crafted, one where he redefined expectations and did so with remarkable clarity and purpose. Who could have guessed just how impactful and unforgettable his time with the Dodgers would become? It appears the best is yet to come for Shohei Ohtani, and for baseball as it continues to witness his historic feats on the diamond.
