Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani had what announcer Joe Davis called “the greatest day in baseball history” on September 19, 2024. Ohtani made his mark in baseball history, becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. This extraordinary feat has cemented Ohtani’s legacy as one of the all-time greats in Major League Baseball.
In a game against the Miami Marlins at LoanDepot Park, Ohtani delivered a career-defining performance, amassing 10 total RBIs and three home runs. His historic achievement came in the seventh inning when he launched an 89 mph changeup over the left field wall for his 50th home run, having earlier swiped third base for his 50th stolen base. Ohtani has contrasted the feat of strength and technique of 50 home runs to the feat of agility and speed of stealing 50 bases which sets him in a class of his own. With this, Ohtani became the sole member of the 50/50 club. The Dodgers also clinched a playoff spot, marking Ohtani’s first postseason appearance after missing six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels.
Ohtani’s 50/50 season is unprecedented, shattering multiple historical records. Achieving 50 home runs in a single season is a rare feat, with only 30 players having reached this milestone before the 2023 season. Ohtani’s journey from a standout high school player in Oshu, Japan, to signing a record-breaking $700 million contract with the Dodgers this past offseason is a testament to his rare dual-threat talents as both a pitcher and hitter. His immense power and exceptional speed sets him apart, demonstrating that a player can excel in multiple facets of the game. Traditionally, players who hit a significant number of home runs lack the agility and speed to steal bases. Ohtani has redefined these boundaries.
Ohtani’s historical 50/50 season has redefined the sport in its limits and excellence. Ohtani’s abilities have transcended traditional boundaries of the game and created his own form of greatness. Ohtani’s historical season not only showcased his unmatched athleticism and versatility but the notion of specialization in baseball. Ohtani has forever altered how we measure individual achievement in the sport.
Ohtani’s impact on the game is bound to inspire a new generation of athletes. As both a dominant pitcher and powerhouse at the plate, he has redefined what young athletes believe is possible. Ohtani continues to shatter expectations and inspire the youth, encouraging versatility, athleticism, and breaking boundaries once thought unbreakable. Ohtani’s rare abilities continue to change the way young players approach the game. His legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on Major League Baseball.
