In Oakland, the Angels faced a formidable challenge against the A’s, enduring a sweep at the Coliseum. However, amidst a season-long homerless drought that stretched across 10 games, Shohei Ohtani continued to make headlines and strengthen his case for a second Most Valuable Player Award with an extraordinary accomplishment, reports MLB.com.
During Sunday’s 10-6 loss, Ohtani achieved a remarkable feat by swiping his 20th base of the 2023 season. This momentous steal marked the 34th 40-20 season in the history of both the American and National Leagues. Ohtani’s exceptional talent propelled him into the elite ranks of players who have achieved multiple 40-20 seasons, a distinction shared by only a select few.
In the company of legends, Ohtani now joins the exclusive club of athletes with multiple 40-20 seasons, a list that includes luminaries such as Alex Rodriguez (four), Barry Bonds (three), Jose Canseco (three), Shawn Green (two), Ken Griffey Jr. (two), Jeff Bagwell (two), and Hank Aaron (two).
Rewinding to his MVP Award-winning 2021 season, Ohtani showcased his versatility by launching 46 homers and stealing 26 bases, both personal career highs. It was a groundbreaking campaign that made him the first Angel in history to achieve a 40-20 season, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
With merely four weeks left in the regular season, Ohtani’s sights are set even higher. As he approaches the 50-home run mark, he has the potential to etch his name in history once more by authoring the fifth 50-20 season in the annals of the American and National Leagues. The baseball world watches in awe as Shohei Ohtani continues to redefine the limits of what’s possible on the diamond.
