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Shohei Ohtani has the chance to perform one more history-making feat. Because the frontrunner for the Nationwide League MVP award, Ohtani would grow to be the first full-time designated hitter to win the award in Main League historical past.
Former Angels outfielder Don Baylor got here the closest to reaching this feat in 1979. The American League MVP began in 65 video games as designated hitter, 98 within the outfield, and one at first base.
Due to this fact, Ohtani could be the primary participant to win in a season when he solely began as his staff’s designated hitter.
Full-time designated hitters have been finalists for the award earlier than, ending as excessive as second place 4 instances. Crimson Sox’s designated hitter David Ortiz practically missed the mark in 2005, when he obtained 11 first place votes however nonetheless completed in second place.
There was an ongoing debate whether or not full–time designated hitters ought to win the award. With no defensive contribution to their staff’s success, some individuals argue that MVPs must be invaluable each offensively and defensively.
Nevertheless, one-way gamers have gained the award earlier than — as pitchers. Dodgers beginning pitcher Clayton Kershaw was crowned the 2014 NL MVP, regardless of scarcely contributing offensively.
“MVP ought to be all-encompassing on what’s the most dear. Clearly protection performs a component in that,” Kershaw mentioned to the Orange County Register’s Bill Plunkett a couple of designated hitter profitable the award. “However in case you’re that good offensively that you simply’re extra invaluable, then I believe it’s okay.”
Ohtani could not contribute defensively, however he’s greater than only a residence run hitter. He’s on monitor to grow to be the first 50-50 player in MLB history. Few of the MLB residence run leaders even have a knack for stealing bases. Ohtani leads the NL in homers (44) and ranks second within the Main Leagues in stolen bases (46).
The one NL participant to come back near Ohtani’s residence run and base stealing skills is Mets’ shortstop Francisco Lindor. He’s the principle competitors Ohtani appears to be going through as a result of Lindor additionally contributes defensively as New York’s on a regular basis shortstop.
Though Ohtani is restricted to plate appearances, he has constantly achieved history-making feats and damaged report after report this season. Arguably, it could be a disgrace to see the NL MVP award go to anybody else.
Photograph Credit score: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports activities
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