Shohei Ohtani’s unprecedented “50-50” record is still a question that comes to mind… The “external factors” that caused the number of stolen bases to skyrocket are shocking!
Some people say, “Ohtani is a base stealer.
On September 20 (Japan Standard Time), Shohei Ohtani (30) of the Los Angeles Dodgers hit a 50-50 record (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases) for the first time in MLB history, playing as the designated hitter against the Marlins.
Even this unprecedented feat was just a passing phase for Otani. Otani stole third base in the first inning to reach 50 bases, stole second base in the second inning to reach 51 bases, and went on a rampage with a two-run double in the sixth inning (No. 49), a two-run double in the seventh inning (No. 50), and a three-run triple in the ninth inning (No. 51). In just one game, he increased his record from 48-49 to 51-51.
On the 21st, he appeared in a game against the Colorado Rockies as the “No. 1 designated hitter” and recorded 4 hits, 2 runs, 1 home run, and 1 stolen base. He further improved his record to 52-52.
The world was astonished and delighted by Ohtani’s extraordinary performance, which made his first-ever accomplishment seem like nothing more than a passing achievement. However, many readers may have felt as follows.
“Aside from his home runs, did Otani ever steal so many bases?”
Otani stole 20 bases last season. There is no doubt about Ohtani’s ability, but even though he is concentrating on being a hitter this season, will he be able to steal 51 bases? In this article, I dared to focus on “external factors” other than Ohtani’s ability.
The first external factor that must be mentioned is the three rule changes in the MBL.
The pitch clock and the limit on the number of innings pitched were introduced last season, and the size of the bases became larger. The pitch clock refers to the time limit between pitches; pitchers must enter the pitching motion within 18 seconds if there is a runner on base (15 seconds if there is no runner on base).
The rule limits the number of times a pitcher can check or remove his foot from the plate to two times per at-bat; after the third time, the pitcher must get the runner out or he is balked and the runner advances, effectively limiting the number of balls that can be checked.
The base size has also been increased from approximately 38 cm square to approximately 46 cm square, shortening the distance between first and second base and between second and third base by approximately 11.4 cm.
The number of stolen bases in MLB has been on the rise as a result of these rule revisions. In 2010, before the rule revisions, the total number of stolen bases in MLB was 2,486; last season, after the revisions, it was 3,503, an increase of more than 1,000. This season, the number of stolen bases is 3427 (as of March 21, Japan time), which is the same level as last season.
Nachi Tomonari, a sportswriter who is familiar with MLB, says that while the rule changes have helped Otani increase his stolen base numbers, that alone does not explain his “52 stolen bases.
The “50-50” record was achieved thanks to the team’s cooperation!
Last season, when the new rule was introduced, MLB’s overall stolen base success rate was 80.2%. On the other hand, Otani’s stolen base success rate was only 76.9%. During his time with the Angels, Ohtani’s stolen base success rate ranged from 55.0% to 80.0%, with the exception of the ’20 season, when he had fewer attempts, giving the impression that he was mediocre in terms of stolen base success. This season, however, Otani has been successful 51 times out of 55 attempts, recording an astonishing 92.7% success rate (as of the 21st).
What is the reason for the sharp rise in Otani’s stolen base success rate? Tomonari cites the presence of a famous Dodgers coach as an external factor.
First base coach Clayton McCullough (44). He is known as a specialist in teaching base running and became the Dodgers’ first base coach in 2009. The Dodgers used to be a team that lined up home run hitters and did not steal many bases.
However, after McCullough’s arrival, the Dodgers became a team that aggressively tried to steal bases. Notably, the Dodgers have one of the highest success rates among MLB teams this season, with an 84.6% success rate (as of March 21, Japan time).
When watching game broadcasts, you frequently see McCullough and Ohtani talking on the bench. The “head bump,” in which they bump each other’s helmets when they reach first base, is another indication of their relationship. Otani also steals bases when the pitcher changes the timing of a pitch, and I think his ability to steal motion has been cultivated by working closely with McCullough.
It is not only the coach. The hitters behind him have also contributed to Otani’s increase in stolen bases. Tomonari continues.
After Ohtani, we have Mookie Betts (31) at No. 2 and Freddie Freeman (35) at No. 3. Both are strong hitters who have won MVP awards in their respective seasons. Opposing pitchers will be concerned about Otani stealing a base, but they must first devote their attention to them.
In addition, I think the fact that both Betts and Freeman are the type of players who look at pitches more carefully is also a plus. If a batter is hitting in an early count, there are fewer opportunities to try to steal, and the stolen base could get in the batter’s way. Some players don’t like runners scampering around when they hit. They are the type who don’t care about such things.
Ohtani also does not run when the count is in the batter’s favor, such as 2 balls to 0 strikes. When you say “52 stolen bases,” it is often misunderstood that Otani tries to steal bases whenever he gets a chance, but it shows that he prioritizes the team’s victory over his own record.
Rule changes, a great mentor, and encouraging teammates. The environment is in place for Ohtani to maximize his potential. It won’t be long before he sets another legendary record.
Interview and text by： Keitaro Haga
