Introduction
Shohei Ohtani has rewritten the history books once again. The Los Angeles Dodgers phenom became the first player in any U.S. professional sport to capture three unanimous MVP awards after a record-breaking season in 2024. With 54 home runs, 59 stolen bases and an OPS+ of 190, Ohtani’s dominance both on and off the field continues to elevate him to legendary status.
A record-breaking MVP season
Ohtani’s 2024 campaign was nothing less than historic. His 50-home run, 50-stolen-base season—a feat never before accomplished in Major League Baseball—cemented his place as the league’s most electrifying player. Batting .310 with a .646 slugging percentage, Ohtani was the engine of the Dodgers’ World Series winning season.
Although he couldn’t pitch due to recovering from Tommy John surgery, his hitting alone landed him a unanimous MVP vote, joining his 2021 and 2023 awards as part of an unrivaled trio of honors.
Unanimity in All Sports
Ohtani’s third unanimous MVP award puts him in a class of his own. In comparison:
- NBA: Steph Curry remains the only unanimous MVP (2015–16), despite the illustrious careers of LeBron James and Michael Jordan.
- NFL: Tom Brady reached this milestone in 2010 but is the only unanimous MVP in league history.
- NHL: Even legends like Wayne Gretzky have only managed a unanimous Hart Trophy, joined most recently by Connor McDavid in 2023.
Ohtani’s ability to dominate as both a hitter and pitcher adds a level of uniqueness that no other athlete has replicated.
Challenges in Triumph
Despite his record-breaking year, Ohtani faced adversity. He was limited to the designated hitter role in 2024 while he recovered from surgery and later suffered a left shoulder injury during the Dodgers’ run to the World Series. Shoulder surgery in November put his availability as a two-way player in 2025 in doubt.
“The goal is to be ready for Opening Day—both batting and pitching—but we’re proceeding with caution,” Ohtani said, hinting at a conservative timeline for his return to dual roles.
Ohtani’s Growing Legacy
Ohtani’s achievements continue to transcend sports, making him a global icon. He joins Frank Robinson as the only players to win MVP awards in both the American and National Leagues, an accolade that highlights his adaptability and dominance.
At just 30 years old, Ohtani’s legacy is still developing. Whether or not he returns to the mound in 2025, his impact on baseball and his ability to unite fans around the world make him a one-of-a-kind player.
Conclusion
Shohei Ohtani isn’t just changing the game—he’s redefining it. With three unanimous MVP awards and a World Series title, his place in baseball history is already assured. Yet as he aims for a return to two-way dominance, one can’t help but wonder: What more does this extraordinary athlete have in store?
Meta Description
Shohei Ohtani becomes the first US major sports athlete with three unanimous MVPs after a historic season with the Dodgers. Learn about his record-breaking stats and legacy.
