Shohei Ohtani has done it again, proving why he’s one of the most transcendent talents in baseball history. On Thursday, the Dodgers’ superstar was crowned the 2024 National League MVP, becoming the first player to win the prestigious award unanimously three times. With this win, Ohtani has etched another milestone in a career already bursting with unprecedented achievements.
50-50 Club and a World Series Crown
Ohtani’s 2024 season was one for the record books. Not only did he become the first player in MLB history to join the exclusive 50-50 club—smashing 54 home runs and stealing 50 bases—but he also spearheaded the Dodgers’ run to a World Series championship. This was Ohtani’s first World Series title and capped an incredible debut season in Los Angeles after signing a groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million contract last offseason.
Despite starting the season recovering from elbow surgery, Ohtani defied expectations by putting up career-best offensive numbers. He led the National League in nearly every major category, including runs (134), home runs (54), RBIs (130), slugging percentage (.646), and OPS (1.036). His 9.2 bWAR led the league, proving his immeasurable value even as a full-time designated hitter.
A Historic MVP Win
Ohtani joins a select group of players to win an MVP Award with two different franchises, following in the footsteps of legends like Frank Robinson and Barry Bonds. He also became just the second player, alongside Bonds, to win MVP in his final year with one team (the Angels in 2023) and in his first with a new club (the Dodgers).
“This MVP, I’m just representing the Dodgers,” Ohtani said during his acceptance speech on MLB Network, reflecting on his historic season. “It was a complete team effort. I wouldn’t have been able to receive this award if it weren’t for my teammates.”
The award was presented fittingly by Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, who himself won NL MVP in 2014. The announcement was a celebration among family, friends, and even Ohtani’s dog, Decoy, adding to the personal and professional significance of the moment.
Defying the Critics
Throughout the season, skeptics questioned whether a full-time DH should be eligible for MVP honors. Those doubts faded as Ohtani put on a show in September, hitting 10 homers, driving in 32 runs, and posting an eye-popping 1.225 OPS in the season’s final month. His clutch performance helped the Dodgers secure the NL West title, edging out the Padres, and silenced any debate about his value.
His dominance also edged out Francisco Lindor of the Mets, who finished second in MVP voting, and Ketel Marte of the Diamondbacks, who placed third.
A Perfect First Year in Dodger Blue
Ohtani’s historic campaign came with a cherry on top: the Dodgers’ World Series victory. He became the first player since teammate Mookie Betts to win MVP in the same year as a World Series title.
As Ohtani looks to rehab from another surgery, this time on his shoulder, his focus remains on continuing to break barriers. “The ultimate goal from the beginning was to win a World Series, which we were able to accomplish,” Ohtani said. “The next goal is for me to do it again.”
With his remarkable talent and determination, it’s hard to bet against him.