Shohei Ohtani made history by becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. This achievement came as Ohtani smashed three home runs and stole two bases during a game against the Miami Marlins, helping the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a 20-4 victory that clinched a playoff spot.
Ohtani’s outstanding performance also marked the first time a player hit three home runs and stole two bases in a single game. He collected a total of six hits, two doubles, and set a Dodgers record with 10 RBIs in the game. With his 51 home runs this season, Ohtani surpassed Shawn Green’s franchise record of 49 set in 2001.
Starting the day just shy of the 50-50 milestone, Ohtani quickly reached it by doubling at the beginning of the game and then stealing bases to achieve the feat. He further solidified his achievement by hitting multiple home runs throughout the game, including a record-breaking 51st homer.
Despite nearly completing a cycle during his historic day, Ohtani settled for three home runs, the last being a 440-foot blast in the ninth inning. The crowd and his teammates alike celebrated his exceptional performance, which helped the Dodgers secure their 12th consecutive playoff berth and reduce their magic number for clinching the division to six.
Dodgers’ starter Jack Flaherty contributed to the team’s victory by pitching six solid innings, allowing three runs on five hits. The Dodgers’ offense was further boosted by players like Andy Pages, who hit a two-run double in the seventh inning.
In terms of player health, Dodgers’ INF Miguel Rojas was available to pinch-hit after battling an illness, while the Marlins welcomed back Vidal Bruján and Derek Hill from the injured list.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers are set to face the Colorado Rockies in a three-game home series while the Marlins will take on the Atlanta Braves in their final homestand of the season.