Three Shohei Ohtani storylines to follow in MLB's second half

While the Dodgers will likely continue to be careful with Ohtani, it's conceivable he could make 10 or more starts before the regular season's conclusion. That would not only help solidify Los Angeles's depleted starting rotation but also increase the value that Ohtani was already supplying for manager Dave Roberts.

In five starts this season, Ohtani has tossed nine innings and hasn't allowed a run over his last eight frames. What he showcases in the second half will be fascinating to watch.

Runs per game

Ohtani leads MLB with 91 runs scored in 95 games played in 2025. Averaging almost one run per game, Ohtani has a chance to add his name to the record books again.

If he were to score 160 runs this season, it would mark the first time since Lou Gehrig scored 167 runs in 1936 that a big league player crosses the 160-run threshold. 

Should Ohtani score 150 or more runs, he would be the first since Jeff Bagwell logged 152 runs during the 2000 season. The only other player to hit that number in the last 80 years is Ted Williams, who had 150 in 1949.

Home runs

Ohtani has helped himself get within reach of that scoring milestone with 32 home runs this season.

Coming off a campaign where he blasted an NL-high 54 home runs, Ohtani's sustained power should be no surprise. However, he's flexing that power at a slightly higher rate this season than in 2024.

Last season, the Japanese superstar sent a pitch over the wall every 13.54 plate appearances. This year, Ohtani is hitting a home run every 13.69 plate appearances. 

While his stolen base numbers have dropped considerably this season (he swiped 59 in 2024 and has just 12 so far this year), Ohtani is staying a consistent home run threat leading off for the Dodgers. Will he top his career-high of 54 he set last season?