Shohei Ohtani is already a legend in the making, boasting two World Series rings, four MVPs, five All-Star nods, and four Silver Slugger awards. At 31, he's just hitting his stride, with the 2026 season shaping up to be a potential peak for this two-way phenom. The big question is: What's next for Ohtani?
Ohtani's already made history by creating the exclusive 50/50 club and crushing 55 home runs in 2025. Plus, he had a top-five Cy Young finish in 2022. His unique blend of pitching and hitting prowess sets him apart, yet a couple of key accolades and a major milestone still beckon.
Here are three realistic goals for Ohtani in 2026:
Cy Young Award
Ohtani's top-five Cy Young finish came in a season where he also belted 34 homers, drove in 95 runs, and posted a .273/.356/.519 slash line. He's got the tools-stuff, pitch mix, and command-to snag the Cy Young.
The Dodgers are likely to manage his workload carefully, ensuring he's fresh for a late-season push. If Ohtani can maximize his innings, this award is within reach.
60 Home Runs
Only a select few have reached the 60-homer mark in a single season. Cal Raleigh was the last to do it in 2025.
Ohtani's been close, with 54 and 55 home runs over the past two seasons. Achieving this feat might require him to pitch shorter outings, perhaps as an opener.
His best offensive season came in 2024 when he didn't pitch, and his second-best was in 2025 with limited innings. Balancing his Cy Young ambitions with a focus on slugging could propel him into this elite club.
Batting Title
To claim a batting title, Ohtani needs to hit .300 or better-a mark he's reached twice, in 2023 and 2024. He's hovered around .280 in other seasons.
With his hitting skills, he's a contender for the crown, but it might require a shift towards a more patient, contact-driven approach. Balancing a batting title run with the quest for 60 homers is a tall order, but achieving both, along with a Cy Young season, would undeniably cement Ohtani's legacy as one of the greatest of all time.