Dodgers News: All Eyes on Los Angeles as Ohtani Aims for 50 HRs and 50 SBs

Shohei Ohtani's remarkable season continues to capture the attention of baseball fans as the Los Angeles Dodgers embark on a crucial four-game series against the Atlanta Braves.

Currently, Ohtani is on the brink of making history, aiming to become the first player in Major League Baseball to achieve at least 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season.

He stands at an impressive tally of 47 home runs and 48 stolen bases as he approaches this milestone.

Dodgers catcher Will Smith remarked on Ohtani's pursuit, saying , "We all definitely know what's going on. It's fun to watch. I think he'll do it... he’s trying to help us win ballgames."

Ohtani’s standout performance not only boosts his individual accolades but significantly contributes to the Dodgers' push in the National League playoffs.

Currently leading the NL West with a record of 87-59, the Dodgers are keen to secure their postseason position, having recently claimed three victories in their last seven games.

On the other side, the Braves are facing challenges of their own, having lost four of their last seven contests. Their recent performance included a disappointing 5-1 defeat against the Washington Nationals.

"We've just been having a hard time scoring runs," Braves manager Brian Snitker said . "You still have to score. You got to really, really pitch good, which we have, but the offense has got to be more consistent if you're going to support the pitching."

The series opens with rookie Spencer Schwellenbach taking the mound for the Braves against Dodgers pitcher Landon Knack. Schwellenbach is eager to rebound after a rough outing, while Knack has been solid this season despite tasting defeat recently.

As both teams line up for this pivotal matchup, the implications stretch beyond mere standings—this series offers the Dodgers a chance to fortify their playoff aspirations while putting pressure on the Braves to deliver the scoring required for survival in the wild-card race.