Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani won the 2024 Edgar Martinez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award.

Ohtani earned the honor in four consecutive seasons after being named the Los Angeles Angels’ top hitter from 2021-23. His latest win isn’t a big surprise since he was already selected. finalist for the National League MVP award after his stellar inaugural year with the Dodgers.

With his fourth win, Ohtani falls behind only Baseball Hall of Fame members David Ortiz (eight) and Martinez (five) for the most wins since the award was established. implemented In 1973.

The 30-year-old thrived on the Dodgers’ roster and helped them finish in the division. -most Home runs and second-most runs among all National League teams in 2024.

Ohtani finished the regular season with a .310/.390/.646 line with 54 homers, 130 RBIs and 38 doubles. He also stole 59 bases and first player He reached 50 steals and 50 home runs in the same season in MLB history.

His 1.036 OPS the best He’s No. 2 among NL players and in the majors, behind only New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge.

While he was unable to sustain his momentum throughout Los Angeles’ entire postseason run, he still finished with 10 RBIs in 16 games and had several key hits as the Dodgers defeated the Yankees in five games to secure their eighth World Cup. Series title.

After signing a huge 10-year contract agreement Ohtani, who had a total value of $700 million to join the Dodgers in free agency, has already exceeded expectations in one season.

The two-way star is expected to return to action in the 2025 season. may not be ready take the mound on Opening Day after completion operation To repair a torn labrum.

Still, Ohtani should continue to provide tremendous value as one of the best hitters in the majors after earning his fourth consecutive Outstanding Designated Hitter award.