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Shohei Ohtani continues MVP run
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani. Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images

'Superhuman': Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani continues MVP run

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani won MVP in three of the previous four years heading into 2025. 

He added to that streak on Thursday.

Ohtani was named the National League MVP, earning all 30 first-place votes. All four of his MVP awards have been unanimous. 

Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber finished second, earning 23 second-place votes, while Mets outfielder Juan Soto was third in the voting. 

The two-way star continued to impress on both sides of the ball in 2025. As a hitter, Ohtani posted a .282/.392/.622 batting line over 727 plate appearances, hitting a career-best 55 homers and 25 doubles while stealing 20 bases. Ohtani had a solid year on the mound as well, especially as he was essentially making his rehab outings from elbow surgery in the majors. He posted a 2.87 ERA and a 1.043 WHIP over 47 innings, striking out 62 batters with nine walks.

Shohei Ohtani not showing any signs of slowing down for Los Angeles Dodgers

Ohtani has made his mark in MLB history through his performance and accolades. He is one of six players to win an MVP award on two different teams and, in 2024, joined Hall of Famer Frank Robinson (1961 with the Reds and 1966 with the Orioles) as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues. Ohtani joined Barry Bonds (1991 and 1992 with the Pirates and 1993, and 2001 through 2004 with the Giants) as the only players in MLB history to win multiple MVP awards with two different teams.

Ohtani's MVP run may not be over. He will enter 2026 without any restrictions on the mound, having thrown six innings in three of his four postseason starts. His home run totals have steadily increased over the past four years, from 34 in 2022 to his career-best 55 homers in 2025. At 31 years old, and still in his theoretical prime, Ohtani should continue to add to his already-impressive resume.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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