“Ohtani’s Historic Chase: Dodgers Star Hits 48th Homer, Eyes 50-50 Season!”

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani moved closer to achieving the first-ever 50-50 season in MLB history on Tuesday.

The two-time AL MVP hit a two-run homer off Miami Marlins pitcher Darren McCaughan during the third inning of their series opener, which ultimately ended in an 11-9 victory for the Marlins.

With 48 home runs and 48 stolen bases, Ohtani is now tied with Adrian Beltré for the second-most homers in a single season in Dodgers history. Shawn Green still holds the franchise record with 49 homers in 2001.

Earlier this week, Ohtani made history as the first player in 130 years to achieve 85 extra-base hits and 45 steals in a single season, joining Hugh Duffy as the only other player to reach this milestone. Duffy achieved 85 extra-base hits and 48 steals in 1894 while playing for the Boston Beaneaters.

The Japanese sensation requires just two more home runs and two stolen bases to become the first-ever 50-50 player in MLB history—an achievement that would secure his place among the all-time greats of the game.

“No pressure,” Ohtani stated through an interpreter, according to MLB.com. “I’m just focusing on having quality at-bats regardless of the situation, which has been my approach throughout the season.”

Although Dodgers manager Dave Roberts doesn’t think Ohtani is feeling the pressure to be the first-ever 50-50 player, he acknowledged, “I believe it’s on his mind. It’s a natural feeling; he probably just wants to get it done, but he’s still focused on competing and helping us win games.”

After the victory, Marlins manager Skip Schumaker remarked that Ohtani is “probably the best player I’ve ever seen.” He added, “He can do it all, and he’s also rehabbing, which is incredible.”

Ohtani, who is recovering from elbow surgery, has not been pitching, but Roberts has not dismissed the possibility of the 30-year-old returning to the mound during the postseason.