Dodgers News: Shohei Ohtani Hits 45th Homer of the Season, Eyes Historic 50-50 Milestone with LA

Shohei Ohtani is on the verge of making baseball history. The Los Angeles Dodgers star hit his 45th home run of the season during a recent game against the Cleveland Guardians, moving him closer to becoming the first player ever to achieve a 50-home run and 50-stolen base season.

Ohtani's latest home run was a powerful shot to center field off left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd. He previously set his career high with 46 home runs during his MVP season with the Los Angeles Angels in 2021.

In addition to his home run, Ohtani also recorded a single in the game, although he did not attempt to steal a base. With 21 games left in the season, he needs five more home runs and four stolen bases to reach the unprecedented 50-50 milestone.

Currently, his totals of 45 home runs and 46 stolen bases are the highest recorded in a single season.

Ohtani reached the 40-40 mark on August 24 with a walk-off grand slam , achieving this feat in just 129 games, the fastest in MLB history.

He joins a select group of players who have reached 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a season, including notable names like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Alfonso Soriano.

If Ohtani successfully hits 50 home runs and steals 50 bases, he will not only be the first to do so but will also become just the third player in MLB history to have a 50-home run season and a 50-stolen base season at any point in their career, joining Barry Bonds and Brady Anderson.

This season, Ohtani is batting .281 with a .993 OPS, leading the National League in home runs, RBIs, and total bases. He is well-positioned to win his third MVP award, this time in the National League.

The Dodgers will continue their series against the Guardians with Ohtani set to face right-hander Gavin Williams in the next game.