Shohei Ohtani loves winning MVP awards, but nothing beats winning the World Series. This season, he achieved both by clinching his fourth MVP title while playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani is only the second player ever to win four MVPs, following Barry Bonds. With Ohtani at 31, the idea of surpassing Bonds’ record of seven MVPs is within reach, especially if it leads to more championships.
Ohtani said, “If I’m playing well, it means I’m helping the team win. But at the end of the day, it’s all about winning games.”
In the American League, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees also made headlines. He became the fourth player in Yankees history to win three MVPs, edging out Seattle’s Cal Raleigh. The vote was very close, resembling the tight finish from 2019 where Mike Trout won by just one vote.
Judge acknowledged his position among Yankees greats like Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle. “It’s tough for me to wrap my head around,” he admitted. Despite the accolades, his focus remains on teamwork and the joy of playing.
This year’s MVP races showcased impressive stats. Ohtani hit .282, with 55 home runs and 102 RBIs, while also returning to pitching after an injury. He struck out 62 batters in 47 innings, gearing up for the postseason.
His standout performance came in the NL Championship Series, where he hit three home runs and struck out ten batters in a single game, a display of unparalleled talent.
Judge, meanwhile, led the league with a .331 batting average and 53 home runs. His back-to-back MVP titles make him the first AL player to achieve this since Miguel Cabrera.
Cal Raleigh, known as “Big Dumper,” had a strong year, leading all catchers with 60 home runs and earning respect among peers. Judge praised Raleigh as both a player and a leader.
Social media erupted with highlights and reactions, as fans celebrated Ohtani and Judge’s successes. Their performances not only captivated baseball enthusiasts but also influenced discussions on sportsmanship and teamwork.
In summary, both Ohtani and Judge continue to elevate their games, cementing their legacies in baseball history. With their competitive spirit, fans can look forward to even more exciting seasons ahead. For more on MLB developments, you can check the latest updates from AP News.
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