Ohtani and Ozuna Chase Historic Achievements in MLB
- Shohei Ohtani and Marcell Ozuna are aiming to win the NL Triple Crown in baseball.
- No designated hitter (DH) has ever won an MVP trophy, but Ohtani and Ozuna may have a chance.
- This achievement would be the first since 1937 in the National League.
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and Atlanta Braves slugger Marcell Ozuna are both vying for the league lead in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in, a feat not accomplished by a National League player since Hall of Famer Joe Medwick in 1937. Ohtani, in his inaugural season with the Dodgers after signing a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract, is also aiming to join Frank Robinson as the only player to win MVP awards in both leagues. Ohtani previously secured the American League MVP in 2021 and 2023 while with the Angels. Ohtani's impressive performance includes a .285 batting average, 34 home runs, and 95 RBIs, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities as both a pitcher and hitter. He began his MLB career with the Angels in 2018, winning the Rookie of the Year award and demonstrating his prowess on the mound with a 4-2 record in 10 starts. His presence in the Dodgers lineup is further bolstered by former MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. Ozuna, a right-handed batter, has yet to finish higher than sixth in MVP voting but came close to a Triple Crown four years ago. In the shortened 2020 season, he achieved a career-high .338 batting average while leading the league with 18 home runs and 56 RBIs. Both players share a common goal: to secure a World Series championship. While Ohtani's contract dwarfs Ozuna's $16 million salary this season, the latter is also a key player for the Braves, who are looking to capitalize on his offensive contributions. The rarity of achieving a Triple Crown—only a dozen have been recorded since 1920—adds to the significance of their pursuits, making it a historic moment in baseball.