Shohei Ohtani and Kiké Hernández are the only two players in Dodgers history to hit 10 home runs and pitch at least two games in a single season.

Baseball is a sport rich with history and tradition, often celebrated for its legendary figures, record-breaking feats, and unique stories. Among the myriad milestones, few are as remarkable as the rare dual-role accomplishments—players who both excel at the plate and on the mound within the same season. The Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise known for its storied history and legendary players, have seen only two such athletes in recent memory: Shohei Ohtani and Kiké Hernández.

This exclusive club underscores the exceptional talent and versatility of these players, especially given the increasing specialization in baseball. Their achievement of hitting at least 10 home runs while also pitching in at least two games in a single season is a testament to their unique skills and adaptability. This essay explores their careers, their seasons with the Dodgers, the significance of their dual contributions, and what this means for baseball’s evolving landscape.

Historical Context: The Rarity of Two-Way Players

The Traditional Role of Players

Historically, baseball players were often more versatile, with many playing multiple positions or roles. However, as the game evolved into a highly specialized sport, players began focusing on either pitching or hitting. Today, the norm is for players to specialize, making the occurrence of a true two-way player—a hitter and pitcher in the same season—a remarkable rarity.

Notable Two-Way Players in Baseball History

The most iconic two-way player in recent history is Shohei Ohtani, who has redefined what it means to be a baseball athlete. Before him, players like Babe Ruth exemplified exceptional two-way talent, but such feats became increasingly rare in the modern game.

The Modern Era and the Rarity of Two-Way Excellence

In the 21st century, very few players have successfully combined significant contributions on both sides of the ball. Ohtani’s success with the Angels has reignited interest in two-way players, but few have achieved the level of two-way excellence that includes substantial offensive production and effective pitching.

Shohei Ohtani: The Modern Marvel

Background and Rise

Shohei Ohtani, born in Japan, began his professional career with the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league before making his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018. His unique talent as both a power hitter and a dominant pitcher quickly captured the baseball world’s attention.

Ohtani’s 2023 Season with the Dodgers

While Ohtani has primarily played for the Angels, his recent seasons have demonstrated his unparalleled ability as a two-way player. His rare combination of a power bat—often hitting 30+ home runs—and a top-tier pitcher—with sub-3.00 ERAs and multiple strikeout titles—has made him a once-in-a-generation talent.

In the context of the Dodgers, Ohtani’s name is often associated with his historic achievements. When he joined the Dodgers’ organization, he brought attention to what a player capable of both pitching and hitting can accomplish. Specifically, Ohtani’s ability to contribute offensively while also pitching in multiple games makes him a prime example of the dual-threat athlete.

The Significance of Ohtani’s Dual Role

Ohtani’s 2023 season epitomized the modern two-way player. He hit over 10 home runs while also pitching in multiple games—an extraordinary feat given the demands of each role. His success challenges the conventional wisdom that players must specialize, proving that with proper conditioning and talent, excellence in both roles is still possible.

Kiké Hernández: The Versatile Dodger

Background and Career Path

Kiké Hernández, born in Puerto Rico, has been a valuable utility player for the Dodgers, known for his versatility, power, and clutch performances. His career with the Dodgers has included moments of offensive brilliance and defensive adaptability, often playing multiple positions.

Hernández’s 2023 Season with the Dodgers

In the 2023 season, Hernández became the second player in Dodgers history to hit at least 10 home runs and pitch in at least two games. His offensive contributions, combined with his occasional pitching appearances, demonstrate a rare level of all-around athleticism.

The Role of Hernández as a Two-Way Player

While Hernández may not have the same reputation as Ohtani as a pitcher, his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball in the same season is notable. His pitching appearances, while less frequent, highlight his willingness to step into multiple roles and his athletic versatility.

Significance of the Achievement

Breaking the Norm

In an era where specialization dominates, Ohtani and Hernández’s accomplishments break the mold, showcasing the potential for players to excel in dual roles. Their achievements highlight the importance of adaptability, athleticism, and team strategy.

Impact on Team Dynamics

Having players who can both hit and pitch provides strategic flexibility. For the Dodgers, a team with a history of valuing versatility, this dual capability enhances roster depth and tactical options.

Inspiration for Future Generations

Ohtani’s success has inspired a new generation of players to pursue two-way excellence. Hernández’s example demonstrates that even in specialized roles, versatility remains valuable.

Broader Implications for Baseball

Evolving Player Development

The achievements of Ohtani and Hernández may influence how teams develop and utilize players. Emphasizing athleticism and multi-skill training could lead to more two-way players emerging in the future.

Strategic Considerations

Teams might consider roster compositions that allow for more flexible roles, especially in the National League with the potential for pitchers to be used as hitters and vice versa.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their success, two-way players face significant physical and mental demands. Maintaining high performance on both sides requires rigorous conditioning and strategic planning, which can be difficult to sustain over a long season.

The Future of Two-Way Players in MLB

Potential Growth of the Role

Ohtani’s success has demonstrated the commercial and competitive value of two-way players. If more players pursue this path and succeed, baseball could see a resurgence of two-way athletes.

Challenges to Overcome

Physical fatigue, team strategy, and the risk of injury are barriers to sustained two-way excellence. Teams will need to balance these factors when developing such players.

The Role of Technology and Training

Advances in sports science, biomechanics, and conditioning could facilitate the development of more versatile athletes capable of handling dual roles.

Shohei Ohtani and Kiké Hernández stand out in baseball history as the only players in Los Angeles Dodgers franchise history to hit at least 10 home runs and pitch in at least two games within a single season. Their achievements symbolize the pinnacle of athletic versatility in a modern sport increasingly defined by specialization.

Ohtani, as a global icon, has redefined what it means to be a two-way player, demonstrating that extraordinary talent and dedication can defy conventional norms. Hernández’s contributions highlight that versatility isn’t limited to superstars but can be a valuable trait across various roles on a team.

Their feats challenge teams, players, and fans to reconsider traditional boundaries and explore new possibilities for player development. As baseball continues to evolve, these two athletes serve as trailblazers, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in multiple facets of the game.

In the broader context, their accomplishments underscore the enduring appeal of the sport—its capacity for innovation, its celebration of individual talent, and its ongoing quest to push the limits of athletic achievement.