Shohei Ohtani wins Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award

Shohei Ohtani wins the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award from Rob Manfred before Game 1 in baseball's World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, in Houston (Ashley Landis/AP).

Ahead of Game 1 of the World Series between the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels two-way player Shohei Ohtani won the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award.

This award was created to “recognize accomplishments and contributions of historical significance to the game.” It is not handed out every year; the last time the award was granted was in 2014.

“Shohei Ohtani’s 2021 season will be remembered forever,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “His all-around excellence captured imaginations across the globe and demonstrated the greatness of our game.”

As a designated hitter/pitcher, Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to be an all-star playing two positions. At the plate, Ohtani recorded a .257/.372/.592 slash line with 103 runs scored, 26 doubles, eight triples, 46 home runs, 100 RBI, 96 walks, 26 stolen bases and a .965 OPS. On the mound, the 27-year-old posted a 9-2 record with a 3.18 ERA and 156 strikeouts in 23 starts.

Ohtani is the 16th recipient of the Commissioner’s Historic Achievement Award.

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