Shohei Ohtani is the third player in history with 15 homers, 27 RBI and 31 runs scored in May, the other two are Mickey Mantle (1956) and Babe Ruth (1928). An absolute madness.

Shohei Ohtani’s 2025 season has been nothing short of spectacular, but his performance in May stands out as an extraordinary chapter in baseball history. In a month where elite players often shine brightest, Ohtani joined an incredibly exclusive club by recording at least 15 home runs, 27 RBIs, and 31 runs scored in a single May. The only other two players to achieve this feat are none other than Babe Ruth in 1928 and Mickey Mantle in 1956 — two of the most iconic figures in baseball lore.

This rare statistical milestone underscores not only Ohtani’s remarkable talent but also his place among the greatest hitters ever to grace the game. In this article, we’ll break down Ohtani’s historic May, compare it to the legendary achievements of Ruth and Mantle, and reflect on what this means for baseball’s present and future.

Shohei Ohtani: The Modern-Day Baseball Marvel

Shohei Ohtani’s unique combination of power, speed, and versatility has captivated fans worldwide. As a two-way player excelling both as a pitcher and a hitter, Ohtani has redefined what is possible in the modern era of baseball, reminding the sport of its rich history while blazing his own trail.

May 2025 was a month when Ohtani’s offensive prowess truly exploded. The raw power in his swing translated into 15 home runs, a figure that dwarfs most players’ monthly totals. He racked up 27 RBIs — driving in teammates with timely and powerful hitting — and crossed home plate himself 31 times, showcasing his ability to get on base and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

To place these numbers in perspective, consider the grind of a Major League Baseball season: a player typically faces a variety of pitchers, pitching styles, and situational pressures. Maintaining such a high level of production over an entire month is a testament to Ohtani’s consistency, skill, and mental toughness.

The Exclusive Club: Babe Ruth (1928) and Mickey Mantle (1956)

That Shohei Ohtani joins Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle in this elite statistical category speaks volumes. These two legendary players are often regarded as two of the greatest hitters in baseball history, and their names carry a legacy that few can match.

Babe Ruth, 1928
Babe Ruth’s 1928 season is one of the most celebrated in baseball annals. Known for his prodigious power and larger-than-life personality, Ruth was the quintessential slugger of the early 20th century. His performance in May 1928, featuring 15 homers, 27 RBIs, and 31 runs scored, showcased his dominance during the peak of his career.

Ruth’s ability to change the game with a single swing revolutionized baseball, turning it into a power-driven sport and helping establish the home run as a central element of offensive strategy. His May 1928 achievements remain a benchmark for excellence.

Mickey Mantle, 1956
Mickey Mantle’s 1956 season was equally legendary. Known as the “Commerce Comet,” Mantle combined power, speed, and a keen batting eye to become one of the most complete players ever. His May 1956 numbers mirror Ruth’s, solidifying his place in baseball’s pantheon.

Mantle’s style represented the modern power hitter who could also run and defend, bridging eras and setting standards for players who followed. His inclusion in this exclusive group reflects his immense impact on the game.

What Makes Ohtani’s Achievement So Remarkable?

While Ruth and Mantle were predominantly hitters, Ohtani’s achievements are more remarkable because he accomplishes this while also pitching at an elite level. Being a two-way player in today’s game, where specialization is the norm, adds layers of complexity to Ohtani’s success.

Balancing Roles
Ohtani’s ability to perform both as a dominant pitcher and a power hitter demands exceptional physical conditioning, mental preparation, and adaptability. Most players focus exclusively on one skill set, but Ohtani excels at both, meaning his body and mind undergo an intense, dual workload.

Consistency Under Pressure
The grind of the MLB season is relentless. Ohtani’s sustained excellence through May — one of the busiest months with many games played — reveals his ability to handle pressure, adapt to scouting reports, and adjust his approach to different pitchers and game situations.

Physical and Mental Resilience
Maintaining peak performance at the plate while also preparing to pitch is a challenge that tests endurance and focus. Ohtani’s performance reflects his resilience, showcasing that he can excel in two demanding roles without sacrificing quality.

The Statistical Breakdown: May 2025

To better appreciate Ohtani’s May, let’s examine the numbers in detail:

• 15 Home Runs: This figure is well above the average for most MLB players over a month and is indicative of Ohtani’s raw power and ability to capitalize on pitches.
• 27 RBIs: Driving in runs is a critical component of offensive success. Ohtani’s 27 RBIs suggest he consistently came through in clutch situations, delivering hits that turned baserunners into runs.
• 31 Runs Scored: Scoring runs depends not only on hitting but also on base running and team dynamics. Ohtani’s 31 runs scored show his ability to get on base and be a constant threat on the basepaths.

These combined stats demonstrate a player who is not just hitting for power but also contributing in every facet of offense.

Historical Context: Comparing Eras

Comparing players across different eras is always challenging due to variations in pitching quality, ballpark dimensions, training methods, and equipment. Yet, Ohtani’s ability to reach numbers only Ruth and Mantle have matched places him in rarefied air.

• Babe Ruth’s Era: The 1920s was a period of transition in baseball, with pitching still dominant but the home run beginning to transform the game. Ruth’s power hitting stood out amid fewer home runs overall, making his achievements groundbreaking.
• Mickey Mantle’s Era: By the 1950s, baseball had evolved with improved training and more emphasis on athleticism. Mantle’s combination of speed and power exemplified the modern ballplayer.
• Ohtani’s Era: Today’s game is marked by advanced analytics, specialized pitching, and increased velocity. Ohtani’s feat against this level of competition highlights his exceptional talent.

The Broader Impact on Baseball and Fans

Shohei Ohtani’s achievements resonate far beyond statistics. His impact on baseball culture and fan engagement is profound:

• Global Popularity: As a Japanese superstar, Ohtani bridges cultures and brings international attention to MLB, inspiring young athletes worldwide.
• Reviving the Two-Way Player Role: Ohtani challenges the notion that players must specialize, potentially inspiring a new generation of versatile athletes.
• Fan Excitement: Fans revel in witnessing historic performances live, and Ohtani’s May has electrified crowds and media alike.
• Legacy Building: Ohtani’s ongoing success ensures his place among the greatest players of all time, adding a new chapter to baseball history.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Shohei Ohtani?

While May 2025 is already historic, Ohtani’s season and career are far from over. As the season progresses, fans and analysts will watch to see if he can maintain this pace and continue challenging baseball’s legends.

• Maintaining Performance: Can Ohtani sustain his offensive production while continuing to pitch at a high level?
• Career Milestones: How will this season’s achievements contribute to his career totals and Hall of Fame candidacy?
• Impact on the Game: Will Ohtani’s success change how teams approach player development and utilization?

Shohei Ohtani’s extraordinary May performance, joining Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle as the only players to hit 15 home runs, drive in 27 RBIs, and score 31 runs in May, is nothing short of baseball history in the making. His unique skill set, combining power hitting and elite pitching, redefines greatness in the modern game and cements his status as one of the sport’s most exciting and transformative figures.

As Ohtani continues to captivate audiences and inspire future generations, his place alongside Ruth and Mantle is a testament not only to his talent but also to the timeless allure of baseball — a sport where legends are made, records are broken, and history is written with every swing.