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As the 2024 season began, the Los Angeles Dodgers had a franchise record of 49 home runs in a single season, a mark that Shohei Ohtani was determined to surpass.
In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press, Ohtani revealed his goal of breaking Shawn Green’s long-standing record. His previous best was 46 home runs.
“I really wanted to exceed that milestone,” Ohtani said. “I was pleasantly surprised when I was able to break that record.”
In his debut season with the Dodgers, Ohtani exceeded all expectations. He put on a fantastic show at the plate, showcasing his skills in every at-bat. Standing at 6-foot-4, the designated hitter achieved a career-high .310 batting average while setting new personal records in home runs and stolen bases.
On his way to winning his third Most Valuable Player award, his first in the National League, Ohtani made history by joining MLB’s exclusive 50/50 club, hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases. He also led the Dodgers to their eighth World Series title, marking his first postseason appearance after missing out in his first six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels.
Ohtani’s outstanding individual performance left a lasting impression, with his former manager Brad Ausmus predicting that he could surpass his 2024 achievements in the following season.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he achieves 60/60 and 20 wins in the next season,” Ausmus commented. “He is truly the greatest athlete to ever play baseball, with no one else coming close.”
Once again, the Dodgers led the league in attendance as fans flocked to watch the Japanese superstar in action, setting record-breaking viewership from his home country. Unsurprisingly, Ohtani’s jersey became the best-selling player merchandise in MLB for 2024.
Reflecting on Ohtani’s impact, Dodgers president and CEO Stan Kasten expressed his satisfaction with Ohtani’s decision to join the team, following their World Series victory.
“I always believed Shohei was the perfect fit for us,” Kasten stated. “We hoped he felt the same way. While there were brief rumors of him signing with the Blue Jays, I truly believe we were the right choice for him, and he made a wise decision.”
For more news on the Dodgers, check out the latest article on Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Ties Michael Jordan By Winning Another Major Sports Award.
Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
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