It’s that time of the year when baseball’s biggest insiders speculation and fans wonder. Who is going to take home MLB’s greatest individual honor this year? In 2023, Shohei Ohtani stands out among all MVP candidates across the AL and NL. With elite hitting and top pitching to match, the two-way phenom has elevated his play to another level. 

Although fans would speculate and point out Ronald Acuna Jr., Mookie Betts, and several other worthy names, Ohtani has dominated them all throughout the season. In fact, statistics back his dominance over the last few years, especially in 2023, with an MVP-worthy season. 

Shohei Ohtani: A Statistical Anomaly

There is almost no player that can compare to Shohei Ohtani in terms of impact. That is, apart from two-way icon Babe Ruth. But in the modern era, the Japanese sensation reigns supreme. In a game where statistics are crucial to determining a player’s worth, Ohtani is head and shoulders above his competition. This year, he led the League in WAR, Slugging%, Adjusted OPS+ and On-Base Plus Slugging, while ranking top-10 in batting average and home runs as well. 

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This doesn’t even account for the great pitching year he had in 2023. Ohtani threw 132 innings and struck out 167 hitters with a 3.14 ERA. If the two-way phenom hadn’t torn his UCL mid-season, he may have finished the year as a Cy Young award candidate as well. Ohtani was by far one of the best hitters in baseball this season, while also showing top level pitching as the Angels’ ace. 

These statistics point toward Ohtani’s dominance. It also establishes that he is one of the best, if not the best player in the MLB. With another monumental season in the books, the 2023 AL MVP favorite is set for free agency history that seemingly matches his other-worldly play. 

Is Ohtani set for $500 million history? 

Although many signs point toward Shohei Ohtani making history in free agency, several factors may impact his decision. Shotime is recovering from surgery on his injured UCL and is unlikely to pitch until 2025. This could impact his overall market and the contract offers he receives long term. Additionally, the two-way phenom is looking to compete. This is something that only a handful of teams could offer him in the upcoming years. 

Amidst an MVP-Caliber Season, Shohei Ohtani’s “Majestic” Home Run Stands Out Among “Amazing” Season Highlights

Despite these factors, Shohei Ohtani will very likely make waves during this off-season. With free agency heating up, a record-breaking deal may be in the works even if the figure does not reach the $500 million mark. Do you think he is the best player in the MLB?

Watch This Story: MLB Free Agent Frenzy: Ohtani, Martinez, And More To Watch In 2023-2024 Offseason