Shohei Ohtani Steals Three Bases in a Single Game, Bringing Total to 46 This Season

Dodgers 11-6 D-backs (Phoenix, 3rd Japan time)

Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers’ pitcher, achieved an impressive feat on the 2nd (3rd Japan time) against the Diamondbacks, stealing three bases in a single game for the second time in his career. This brings his total stolen bases to 46 this season, steadily approaching the unprecedented milestone of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases.

In the fourth inning, Ohtani reached base on a walk and successfully stole second base from left-hander Rodriguez, bringing his total stolen bases to 44. In the seventh inning, he hit a single to right field and quickly stole second and third base from left-hander Montgomery. Both times, he stole motions and made it easy.

Ohtani’s steady progress towards a new record has been met with high praise from the Diamondbacks’ broadcasting station, “D-backs TV.” Commentator Bob Brenly, who has played for the Giants and Blue Jays and participated in the All-Star Game, was lavish with praise, saying, “He’s a big, big guy. Tremendous power at the plate, incredible speed on the bases. He’s a unicorn. No doubt about it!”

Commentator Steve Berthiaume also praised Ohtani, saying, “He’s a $700 million unicorn,” citing the total value of his contract with the Dodgers. Brenly, who led the Diamondbacks from 2001 to mid-2004, also commented on the third-base steal, “Not only is he fast, he keeps a close eye on the pitcher on the mound.”

After the game, Ohtani said, “If you’re confident that you’ll be safe with a high probability, you should go for it.” This kind of insight seems to be a factor in his mass production of stolen bases.

Watch all the games featuring popular Japanese players such as Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, as well as free highlights, on Abema!