Sept 20, V7N - Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani made history on Thursday, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball to both hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. Ohtani accomplished the feat in a remarkable game against the Miami Marlins, where he surpassed the milestone by hitting three home runs and stealing two bases. He now holds a spot in the exclusive "51-51 club." While Ohtani’s achievement is unprecedented, it sparks the question: who might be next to reach this incredible milestone? Although it’s a daunting task—only six players have ever had a 40-40 season—several current players possess the dynamic skill set necessary to dream about reaching the 50-50 mark.

Among those contenders is Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz, who has already proven his base-stealing ability, leading the MLB in steals this year. However, his 24 home runs suggest he’ll need to up his power game to reach Ohtani’s level. Next is Brewers’ outfielder Jackson Chourio, the youngest player in MLB history to achieve a 20-20 season, who could go further given his youth and talent. Royals’ shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who has averaged 29 home runs and 38 steals per 162 games, also has the potential to join the 50-50 club if he slightly adjusts his approach at the plate.

Ronald Acuña Jr., fresh off his historic 40-40 season, could be a candidate once he returns from injury, and Guardians third baseman José Ramírez is on the verge of entering the 40-40 club this season. Finally, Pirates’ center fielder Oneil Cruz and Nationals’ outfielder James Wood are exciting speculative picks, each showcasing the physical tools to potentially achieve this rare combination of power and speed in the future.

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