Shohei Ohtani’s “Golden Elbow” Brings “55 Home Runs! After a difficult August, Shohei Ohtani is going into the last half of the season in top form.

A Dream Becomes a Reality

At long last, the crown jewel of the Japanese baseball world has done it.

On August 30 (local time), Shohei Ohtani (30) achieved the major league record of “43-43,” breaking the record of “42-42” (42 home runs and 42 stolen bases) set by Alex Rodriguez (49) in 1998.

The momentum never stopped. On September 6, he hit No. 45 to the back screen in center field, making it 45-45. He hit a 45-45 on September 6, making it 45-45.

Ohtani has already surpassed the number of home runs he hit in 2011. Last year, an injury to his right elbow prevented him from playing most of the month of September, but this season, when he has been concentrating on being a hitter, he is in good condition even at the end of the season, maintaining a pace of 51 home runs and 56 stolen bases (figures as of September 6). The 50-50 record, which was a pipe dream until a few months ago, has become a reality.

Although Ohtani’s batting average dropped in August, his home run pace has increased even more, with five hits in eight games in late August. Considering this, even 55 home runs for the season is within reach.

One of the factors behind Otani’s strong hitting is his “golden elbow.

Otani underwent surgery on his right elbow last September and is still undergoing rehabilitation. What does it mean, then, that his elbow is supporting his batting? Baseball commentator Takehiko Kobayakawa explains.

Otani’s stance is with his left elbow taut and his left armpit wide open. His stance is such that his elbow is in contact with his body at the timing from swing to impact. By doing this, he is able to transfer the rotational force of his entire body, not just his arms, to the ball.

What about his right elbow, which is undergoing rehabilitation?

On August 31, he took pitching practice in the bullpen for the first time since his surgery with the catcher seated, and his progress was good, recording 148 km/h. He is expected to improve further in the future. His condition is expected to improve further in the future. Kobayakawa continues.

He says, “Just before I swing, I move my right shoulder a little closer to my face so that my right elbow goes through the ball smoothly. Otani’s overwhelming muscular power and core strength carry the ball into the stands. The combination of his skill and power allows him to hit a lot of home runs.
The pace of stolen bases has also increased. Now Ohtani has reached a level where he can be successful when he runs, so it would not be surprising if he steals 60 bases.”

In his six years with the Angels until last year, Ohtani never had a winning season. However, the team is currently in first place in the West Division of the National League and is considered a favorite to win the World Series.

He is on his way to an unprecedented “55-55” record and the home run crown in both leagues. With his “golden elbow,” Otani’s record-breaking streak continues.

From the September 20, 2024 issue of FRIDAY