What's Happening?
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers finished second in the National League MVP voting for the 2026 season, behind Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Cubs, who won unanimously. Ohtani appeared on all 30 NL MVP ballots, receiving 26 second-place votes, two
third-place votes, and two fourth-place votes. This marks the end of his streak of three consecutive MVP awards. Despite injuries that affected his performance in the latter half of the season, Ohtani still produced a notable two-way season. He led the Dodgers with 30 home runs and recorded an .889 OPS. On the pitching side, he had an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA through 14 starts, striking out 95 batters in 85 2/3 innings before a left knee injury ended his pitching for the season after July 3.
Why It's Important?
Shohei Ohtani's second-place finish in the NL MVP voting, despite an injury-dampened season, underscores his unparalleled impact as a two-way player in Major League Baseball. His consistent presence at the top of MVP discussions, even when not at full health, highlights his extraordinary talent and the unique value he brings to the game. For the Dodgers, Ohtani's performance, even with injuries, was crucial to their season. The focus on sustaining him as a two-way player in 2027 and beyond indicates the strategic importance of his health and performance to the team's future success. This outcome also reflects the growing recognition of two-way players in baseball, setting a new standard for versatility and excellence in the sport.
What's Next?
The Los Angeles Dodgers' primary focus for Shohei Ohtani in 2027 and beyond will be to sustain his two-way performance throughout an entire regular season, addressing the injury concerns that impacted his 2026 campaign. This will likely involve careful management of his workload and a strategic approach to his training and recovery. Ohtani's continued presence as a top-tier hitter and pitcher is critical for the Dodgers' championship aspirations. The team will aim to maximize his unique abilities while mitigating injury risks, ensuring he remains a dominant force in the National League. His future performance will be closely watched as he attempts to return to his MVP-winning form.
Beyond the Headlines
Ohtani's consistent high-level performance, even with injuries, raises broader questions about player management and the long-term sustainability of two-way players in MLB. His case highlights the immense physical toll that playing at an elite level as both a pitcher and a hitter can take. The Dodgers' strategy for Ohtani in the coming years could set a precedent for how other teams approach developing and managing multi-talented athletes. This situation also sparks debate among fans and analysts about the criteria for MVP awards, particularly when comparing a player's overall impact despite injuries against a fully healthy, dominant season from another player. Ohtani's career continues to redefine what is possible in baseball, pushing the boundaries of athletic achievement.
