FanGraphs’ recent Depth Charts projections suggest that Shohei Ohtani, the standout player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is on track to dominate Major League Baseball in 2026. He’s predicted to hit 48 home runs, collect 119 RBIs, score 129 runs, and achieve a slugging percentage of .599.
With an OPS estimated at .983, he ranks just behind the top hitter in the model. In essence, these algorithms hint at Ohtani’s extraordinary ability.
Furthermore, Ohtani was among MLB’s top offensive performers last season, leading in runs scored while placing second in slugging percentage, only trailing Aaron Judge. He recorded 55 home runs, surpassing Judge, yet finished behind Cal Lowry and Kyle Schwarber.
The Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, has high praise, declaring Ohtani “the best player to ever play this game.” A bold statement, perhaps, but the evidence certainly supports that claim.
In terms of expectations, Ohtani’s fanbase remains unfazed. The excitement of what 2026 could hold is palpable, especially if he continues on this upward trajectory. If projections hold true, it may be a season marked not just by individual accolades but by significant moments in baseball history.
