Shohei Ohtani's impressive 2024 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers is not going to be forgotten anytime soon. Ohtani became the first player to record 50 stolen bases with 50 home runs in a season.
While Ohtani continues to break boundaries, it's important to acknowledge that a few players have previously come closer to his record. One such player is Ronald Acuna Jr. Braves fans are well aware of their star slugger's achievement in 2023. Acuna had a historic 40-70 season. He smashed 41 home runs and recorded 73 stolen bases in 2023.
Here's a look at Shohei Ohtani's ongoing 50-50 2024 season and Ronald Acuna Jr.'s 2023 40-70 season.
While looking at the stats, both players have achieved a unique milestone in their incredible careers. Acuna has more stolen bases, but Ohtani still has six games left in the regular season.
Shohei Ohtani has 55 stolen bases but has already crossed Acuna in home runs. The designated hitter has 53 home runs, a dozen more than Acuna. Ohtani is still recovering from his elbow surgery. Hence, pitching is out of the way. The slugger is playing a new role for the team.
The Dodgers star is known for his two-way ability. His ability to pitch and hit has made him special. However, stealing bases has brought a new dimension to his game. This new addition to his game further elevates Ohtani's status in the comparison with Acuna.
No designated hitter has won the MVP. Yet, Ohtani is the front-runner for the NL MVP and could be the first DH to achieve that status.
Winning the MVP is left to be seen, but that is something in which Acuna has excelled, especially with his defense. Acuna also won a Silver Slugger Award last season. As for Ohtani, he seems to be having a better season despite undergoing a Tommy John surgery last year.
After looking into the stats and overall performance of both players, it's evident that both players had an excellent season. Shohei Ohtani was the first to a 50/50 MLB season, but Acuna was the first to record a 40/70 season. Both players are etched in the history of the sport.
Several players have been a part of the elite 40/40 club. Yet, Acuna and Ohanti have gone the extra mile to impress their fans. The Braves and Dodgers are fortunate to have these stars.
Shohei Ohtani named the NL player of the week
Last week was huge for Ohtani after his extraordinary performance. Ohtani received huge praise from the MLB world and was named the NL Player of the Week.
Ohtani had one of the best weeks of his career after going 6-for-32 with 11 runs. Out of which six were home runs. Additionally, several other sports icons, including LeBron James, Billy Jean King, and Patrick Mahomes, congratulated Ohtani on his performance.