Shohei Ohtani has the chance to perform yet one more history-making feat. Because the frontrunner for the Nationwide League MVP award, Ohtani would develop into the primary full-time designated hitter to win the award in Main League historical past.
Former Angels outfielder Don Baylor got here the closest to attaining this feat in 1979. The American League MVP began in 65 video games as designated hitter, 98 within the outfield, and one at first base.
Subsequently, Ohtani can be the primary participant to win in a season when he solely began as his workforce’s designated hitter.
Full-time designated hitters have been finalists for the award earlier than, ending as excessive as second place 4 instances. Crimson Sox’s designated hitter David Ortiz almost missed the mark in 2005, when he obtained 11 first place votes however nonetheless completed in second place.
There was an ongoing debate whether or not full–time designated hitters ought to win the award. With no defensive contribution to their workforce’s success, some folks argue that MVPs must be useful each offensively and defensively.
Nevertheless, one-way gamers have gained the award earlier than — as pitchers. Dodgers beginning pitcher Clayton Kershaw was topped the 2014 NL MVP, regardless of scarcely contributing offensively.
“MVP must be all-encompassing on what’s the most dear. Clearly protection performs a component in that,” Kershaw stated to the Orange County Register’s Invoice Plunkett a few designated hitter successful the award. “However in the event you’re that good offensively that you just’re extra useful, then I feel it’s okay.”
Ohtani could not contribute defensively, however he’s greater than only a house run hitter. He’s on monitor to develop into the primary 50-50 participant in MLB historical past. Few of the MLB house run leaders even have a knack for stealing bases. Ohtani leads the NL in homers (44) and ranks second within the Main Leagues in stolen bases (46).
The one NL participant to come back near Ohtani’s house run and base stealing talents is Mets’ shortstop Francisco Lindor. He’s the primary competitors Ohtani appears to be going through as a result of Lindor additionally contributes defensively as New York’s on a regular basis shortstop.
Though Ohtani is proscribed to plate appearances, he has constantly completed history-making feats and damaged report after report this season. Arguably, it might be a disgrace to see the NL MVP award go to anybody else.
Photograph Credit score: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports activities
Have you ever subscribed to our YouTube Channel but? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to remain updated on all the newest Dodgers information, rumors, interviews, reside streams, and extra!
