Shohei Ohtani’s Quest for MLB Home Run Crown Amidst Injuries
Will the Injured Superstar Catch Up to Matt Olson in Home Runs?
In the closing weeks of the season, the Los Angeles Angels find themselves in a position where pride is their sole motivation. It’s been a grueling year for the organization, with looming uncertainties about key team members in the upcoming winter.
Among those uncertainties is the future of the two-way sensation, Shohei Ohtani, who is on the brink of becoming a free agent. The prevailing expectation is that Ohtani will part ways with the Halos, seeking a team that can consistently deliver victories.
But in the recent weeks leading up to the season’s conclusion, Ohtani has discovered a new source of motivation – the MLB home run crown. Currently trailing Matt Olson of the Atlanta Braves by six home runs, Ohtani faces an uphill battle. Adding to the challenge is his UCL tear, making his quest seem like a longshot.
Nonetheless, Zachary D. Rymer from Bleacher Report believes Ohtani has what it takes to finish the season as the home run leader. Despite not hitting a single home run since learning of his UCL injury, Ohtani’s bag of tricks might still have a few surprises.
All it might require is for him to find his rhythm in a few games, and he could quickly bridge the gap with Olson. If Ohtani manages to catch and ultimately surpass Olson, it would be an astonishing feat, especially considering his injury.
“The Angels have 18 games remaining and, just sayin’, Ohtani has hit as many as 14 home runs in an 18-game span before. And nobody can say he doesn’t have incentives to go on a similar rampage to round out the season. Though his UCL is a complicating factor, a home run title can only boost his value on the upcoming free-agent market.”
Per Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report
The remainder of the season promises to be riveting as fans keep a close eye on Ohtani’s pursuit. It’s worth noting that Ohtani has already claimed the American League MVP award for the year, and securing the home run crown would be the icing on the cake.
The road to overtaking the home run lead, however, is not without its challenges. Ohtani is currently sidelined with an oblique injury, but manager Phil Nevin has expressed his desire for Ohtani’s return. The question remains: can Ohtani defy the odds and make Rymer’s prediction a reality?
