Shohei Ohtani hits 300th MLB home run, first Japanese player to reach the mark

Shohei Ohtani 300th home run Los Angeles Dodgers MLB milestone Japanese player

On July 8, 2026, Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani led off the game against the Colorado Rockies with a line‑drive to centre field, recording his 300th career home run in Major League Baseball. The blast came on the third pitch of the at‑bat and made Ohtani the first Japanese‑born player and the 170th player overall to join the 300‑home‑run club. It was his 20th homer of the season and his 129th with the Dodgers.

The milestone bolsters Ohtani’s candidacy for the 2026 National League MVP award, with market analysts noting an 86.5 % implied probability of him winning. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised the quick achievement, saying it “came pretty dang quick” despite the two elbow surgeries Ohtani has undergone. Roberts also highlighted a minor biceps soreness but said the team is ready to adjust if needed.

The achievement sparked widespread media coverage across Japan, Taiwan, the Dominican Republic and other regions, with fans and commentators noting the historic nature of the feat and its impact on Ohtani’s dual‑role reputation as both a pitcher and a power hitter.