Shohei Ohtani is rewriting the record books in Major League Baseball, and he is now in position to surpass Barry Bonds’ all-time record of seven MVP awards.
At just 31 years old, Ohtani has already claimed four MVPs, all in unanimous fashion, and sits only three awards behind Bonds. His combination of pitching and hitting excellence makes him a once-in-a-generation talent, one whose career trajectory is difficult to compare with anyone else in the sport.
What makes Ohtani remarkable isn’t just his talent, it’s the sheer scope of it. He excels as both a left-handed hitter and right-handed pitcher, a rarity in modern baseball. In 2025, he slashed .282/.392/.622, belted 55 home runs, and drove in 102 RBIs.
On the mound, he made 14 starts, recorded a 2.87 ERA, and struck out 62 batters, all while managing recovery from multiple elbow surgeries. Even if one ignored his pitching contributions, his offensive production alone would make him one of the top players in the National League, as evidenced by his high WAR (Wins Above Replacement).
Ohtani’s ability to dominate in multiple facets of the game sets him apart from his competition. While stars like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Kyle Schwarber, and Trea Turner shine in the league, none bring the dual-threat capability that Ohtani does.
The National League, with its roster of talented but more specialized players, gives him an added advantage in MVP races. Additionally, playing alongside Hall of Famers Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman provides a supportive environment that maximizes his impact on the field.
Why Ohtani is poised to break Bonds’ record
Ohtani’s versatility is a key reason he can continue to amass MVPs. Beyond his batting power, he possesses a devastating pitch repertoire, elite base-running skills, and a keen baseball intellect that allows him to adapt when his body limits him.
He has already demonstrated this adaptability, returning from elbow surgery and adjusting his pitching workload without sacrificing offensive output. Assuming he remains healthy, Ohtani’s skill set gives him a sustained advantage over NL peers, many of whom are limited to one side of the ball.
Surpassing Bonds’ seven MVPs will not be easy. Bonds dominated in the late 1990s and early 2000s, winning four straight awards in addition to three others. While his era was controversial due to performance-enhancing drug allegations, Ohtani’s path relies entirely on natural talent, preparation, and relentless drive.
His ability to excel in multiple roles is unprecedented, and if he maintains his health and productivity, claiming the top spot on the all-time MVP list seems not only possible but likely.
Ohtani is already in the history books, yet the most extraordinary chapters of his career may still lie ahead. Four MVPs down, three to go, and if history is any indication, Shohei Ohtani is just getting started.
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