Shohei Ohtani makes history with third Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year award, tying Michael Jordan

It's safe to say that in the world of MLB, 2024 belongs to LA Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani. The three-time MVP enjoyed one of the best seasons in league history by becoming the first player to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, finishing with 54 and 59.

Thanks to his historic season, Ohtani has been named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year for the third time in his career, joining an exclusive club. The Dodgers superstar joined NBA legend Michael Jordan as three-time winners.

Given the level of success that Ohtani has enjoyed, there is a realistic chance that he could add another before the end of his MLB career. Only LeBron James, Tiger Woods and controversial cyclist Lance Armstrong have won the award four times.

"Growing up in Japan, I did follow Michael Jordan and Tiger Wood," Ohtani said on Monday, via AP. "I would see their accolades and how they were successful in the United States."

Ohtani had a year to remember in 2024. After inking the then-richest contract in MLB history, 10-years $700 million, to join the LA Dodgers, he dominated at the plate. Even though he spent the entire season recovering from elbow surgery, Ohtani still produced at a level never seen before, making him a clear favorite to win the award.

He is only 30 years old and in the prime of a Hall of Fame career, so he could not only tie James, Woods and Armstrong but potentially surpass them as well. If he can fully recover from his injury and continue to perform as an elite pitcher and hitter, Ohtani could add another AP Male Athlete of the Year Award soon.

Shohei Ohtani becomes the MLB player with the most AP Male Athlete of the Year Awards

Shohei Ohtani now sits atop the MLB mountain in terms of the coveted award. The only other MLB player to win it twice is LA Dodgers' all-time great Sandy Koufax. Koufax, who is arguably the greatest pitcher of all time, won the Cy Young award both times he won the AP Male Athlete of the Year award.

Other notable superstars who won the award are New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge and Houston Astros infielder Jose Altuve. Given the influx of exciting talent making its way to the league, it may not be long before a new player adds his name to this list.