Shohei Ohtani continued his historic season, becoming the first player in 130 years to record 85 extra-base hits (XBH) and 45 steals in a single season, CNN reports.
Ohtani’s two doubles against the Atlanta Braves helped the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 9-2 victory in the third game of the series, pushing his XBH total to 86. This accomplishment, combined with his 48 stolen bases, makes him only the second player in MLB history to achieve this feat, joining Hugh Duffy who accomplished the same in 1894.
Duffy, who played for the Boston Beaneaters, is considered one of the greatest players of his era. His .440 batting average that year remains one of the highest ever recorded in MLB history. Ohtani, however, has already surpassed Duffy’s record with 13 regular season games remaining, showcasing an extraordinary season even against such legendary figures.
The Japanese superstar is on track to make even more history. With just three more home runs and two stolen bases, Ohtani will become the first player in MLB history to achieve a 50-50 season (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases). This would place him alongside some of the greatest players ever, like Barry Bonds, Joe DiMaggio, and the Dodgers’ own Roy Campanella, as one of only 12 players to win at least three MVP awards.
Despite his incredible individual achievements, Ohtani has yet to reach the postseason in any of his six previous MLB seasons. That could change this year, however, as the Dodgers currently lead the National League West by 3.5 games. Ohtani has been rehabbing from elbow surgery all season, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has not ruled out a return to the mound for the 30-year-old during the postseason.
