Ohtani Blasts MLB's Hardest Hit of 2024, Dodgers Extend Streak

The two-time MVP of the Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani, never ceases to amaze. He smacked a single off Yusei Kikuchi in Saturday’s 4-2 victory over the Blue Jays with an incredible 119.2 mph exit velocity, which is both the hardest-hit ball in MLB this season and the hardest of his stellar career. Additionally, since at least 2015, this is the Dodger’s hardest-hit ball.

“There was definitely more adrenaline when facing him,” Kikuchi said. “He got the better of me, but I got him out after that.”

Ohtani now has three balls that have reached above 119 mph in the Statcast era, only Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton have more. Only four days before, Ohtani blasted a home run with an exit velocity of 118.7 mph, establishing a new Dodgers record and a personal best.

“It’s astounding,” stated manager Dave Roberts. “Not only does he have power, but he also has excellent strike zone control right now. The pitches he can punish are earned by him.

Ohtani Blasts MLB’s Hardest Hit of 2024, Dodgers Extend Streak

Ohtani’s fireworks are only one aspect of the Dodgers’ scorching lineup. In his past 12 at-bats, Will Smith is 9 for 12, and Mookie Betts is still putting up big numbers. The Dodgers are on a six-game winning streak and are in high form.

Before being taken out of the game due to stiffness, Tyler Glasnow pitched six-plus innings and allowed just one run. The Dodgers have faith in their right-hander, who has led MLB with 43 innings pitched and 53 strikeouts while downplaying the problem.

“When he’s on, it’s almost impossible to hit,” Betts stated. “You never know what’s coming, and it all looks the same out of his hand.”

The Dodgers have had enough of playing below expectations following a dismal 12-11 start. They suddenly seem like the formidable force they were always meant to be this past week, and they believe they haven’t even hit their prime yet.

“If we keep this up,” Roberts stated, “there’s no pitcher out there we can’t handle.”