Dodgers player Miguel Rojas drew comparisons between Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. after witnessing Ohtani’s impressive batting practice session on Wednesday. Ohtani’s display, where he hit 10 home runs in just 29 swings, reminded Rojas of Acuña Jr., with whom he played alongside in the Venezuelan Winter League. Despite Ohtani focusing solely on offense this season due to injury, his remarkable performance last season ensures he remains a contender for the MVP title in 2024 if he can replicate or surpass his previous achievements.
In his final season with the Angels, Ohtani’s impressive statistics included 44 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and a league-leading 179 wRC+. Meanwhile, Acuña Jr. made history by becoming the first player to join the 30-home run and 60-stolen base club, followed by the 40-home run and 70-stolen base club. His remarkable stats of 41 home runs, 73 stolen bases, 217 hits, and 149 runs are unprecedented in any era of baseball.
Despite Ohtani’s injury, Rojas’s comparison suggests the potential for greatness when Ohtani is in optimal health. The Dodgers may discover Ohtani’s full potential once he returns to full fitness.
