Ohtani's Historic MVP Run Compared to MLB Legends

Shohei Ohtani is on the cusp of winning his fourth MVP award in five years, solidifying his legacy as one of baseball's all-time greats. This season, he hit 55 home runs, leading the National League in runs scored, slugging percentage, OPS, and total bases.

As a pitcher, he posted a 2.87 ERA in 47 innings with 62 strikeouts. Ohtani made history by becoming the first player to hit three home runs and strike out 10 batters in a single game, achieving this in a playoff setting.

In the World Series, Ohtani went to bat nine times, reaching base every time, tying a record with four extra-base hits, and he was the starting pitcher in Game 7, contributing to the Los Angeles Dodgers' victory.

According to ESPN, Ohtani's performance over the past five seasons includes a stunning 45.2 WAR, with averages that showcase his dual-threat capabilities: a .285 batting average, 171 OPS+, 47 home runs, and 104 RBIs per season, alongside a pitching record of 9-4 and a 2.84 ERA.

Notably, Ohtani's achievements include three unanimous MVP selections, a feat unmatched in the sport's history, with only Barry Bonds having more than three MVP awards. Critics often compare Ohtani's five-year run to legendary players across different eras.

For instance, Honus Wagner's five-year stretch from 1905 to 1909 saw him lead the league with a 49.2 WAR, while Ty Cobb's era from 1909 to 1913 featured a remarkable .396 batting average and a 47.7 WAR.

Babe Ruth's five-year peak from 1920 to 1924 remains iconic, boasting a 56.6 WAR and a .370 batting average, yet Ohtani's all-around contributions as both a hitter and pitcher present a compelling case for his greatness.

The discussion extends to players like Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Mickey Mantle, who each had standout periods in their careers, but Ohtani's unique ability to excel at both hitting and pitching sets him apart.

According to ESPN, while Ohtani's total WAR is incredible, it does not top the charts when compared to all-time greats. However, his contributions to two World Series championships and ongoing record-setting achievements paint him as a transformative figure in the game.

In conclusion, as Ohtani approaches another MVP award, the conversation surrounding his place in baseball history continues to evolve, as many analysts and fans alike ponder how he compares to the legends who shaped the sport.