The Mycenaean

When it comes to baseball, fans often debate who the greatest player of all time is. 

While names like Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and Ted Williams are frequently thrown around, I believe that Shohei Ohtani has already established himself as the greatest baseball player we’ve ever seen. 

His combination of pitching and hitting talent is something we haven’t seen in over a century, and he’s rewriting the history books in real-time.

First, let’s talk about Ohtani’s incredible stats.

As of September 25, 2024, he has a career batting average of .280 with over 224 home runs, while also maintaining an impressive ERA (Earned Run Average) of about 3.01 as a pitcher.

In the 2021 season, he became the first player in Major League Baseball history to be selected as an All-Star as both a pitcher and a hitter, an achievement that showcases his dual-threat ability. 

He finished that season with 46 home runs, 100 RBIs (Runs Batted In), and 26 stolen bases while also striking out 219 batters on the mound. 

Thus far in the 2024 season, Ohtani became the first player to reach the 50/50 club hitting 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases. 

This level of performance from a single player is unprecedented and demonstrates why Ohtani stands alone in the record books.

One of the most remarkable things about Ohtani is his versatility.

He’s not just a great pitcher or a great hitter; he’s both at an elite level. In today’s game, specialization is common. Most players focus solely on hitting or pitching, but Ohtani breaks that mold. 

He plays every day and consistently performs at a high level in both roles, making him a unique asset to his team. 

His presence in the lineup forces opposing teams to strategize differently, and he can change the outcome of a game in numerous ways.

Ohtani’s accolades are another reason he deserves the title of greatest player of all time. 

He won the American League MVP award in 2021 and 2023 (likely to win the 2024 MVP award), and he’s a four-time All-Star. Furthermore, he earned the 2021 and 2023 Silver Slugger award as a designated hitter and has been recognized for his exceptional pitching abilities, including finishing high in the Cy Young Award voting. 

In his debut season, he won the 2018 Rookie of The Year award. These accolades are not just impressive; they signify Ohtani’s impact on the game and his place in baseball history.

But let’s also consider Ohtani’s potential. 

At just 30 years old, he’s still in the prime of his career. 

His combination of speed, power, and pitching finesse means he could continue to break records for years to come. If he maintains his current trajectory, it’s not unreasonable to think he could become the first player to hit 500 home runs and pitch with a sub-3.00 ERA over a long career. 

Such milestones would solidify his legacy even further.

In addition to his statistics and accolades, Ohtani’s influence on the game of baseball is monumental. He’s not just a star in America; he’s an international sensation, bringing fans from Japan and beyond to the sport. 

His success has inspired a new generation of players who dream of following in his footsteps. 

Young athletes are now looking to emulate his skills, proving that a player can excel in multiple areas of the game. Ohtani’s rise has brought interest in baseball, especially in Japan, where he is a national hero.

When he steps onto the field, there’s a visible excitement in the air. His humility, combined with his electrifying performances, makes him relatable and likable. Fans are not just watching a player, they are witnessing history in the making. 

While some might argue that players like Babe Ruth or Barry Bonds hold the title for greatest of all time due to their historical records, it’s essential to look at the context of Ohtani’s achievements. 

Ruth was known for being an exceptional hitter, and while he pitched, he didn’t do so consistently throughout his career. Ohtani is doing both at an elite level simultaneously in a more competitive and athletic era. 

Today’s game requires more from players than ever before, and Ohtani excels in this demanding environment.

Another key point in Ohtani’s favor is the advancements in sports science and training. 

While players in the past didn’t have the same access to training regimens, nutrition, and recovery strategies, Ohtani is taking full advantage of modern techniques. 

He represents the evolution of the game, showcasing what is possible when talent meets dedication and innovation.

To summarize, Shohei Ohtani is not just a remarkable player; he is the greatest baseball player of all time. His staggering stats, remarkable accolades, potential for future greatness, and profound influence on the game make him a once-in-a-generation talent. 

While debates about the greatest of all time will likely continue, it’s crucial to recognize the uniqueness of Ohtani’s abilities. He is changing the narrative of what a baseball player can be, and I am excited to watch the rest of his career unfold.

We’re living through a historic time in baseball, and Ohtani is at the center of it all. So, whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or a casual observer, keep an eye on Shohei Ohtani—he is truly one of a kind,