Shohei Ohtani Nearing Japanese Legend’s Historic Streak

Apr 6, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates hitting a home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is just two games away from tying Hall of Famer Ichiro Suzuki’s record for longest on-base streak by a Japanese-born player.

Suzuki reached base in 43 consecutive games in 2009, and Ohtani extended his on-base streak to 41 games on Monday with a two-hit performance against the Toronto Blue Jays. In addition to his on-base streak, Ohtani hasn’t allowed a run in 22.2 regular season innings.

Ohtani’s streak began Aug. 24, 2025, following an 0-for-4 performance against the San Diego Padres. He has reached base via hit or walk in every game since then.

Looking at Ohtani’s ability at the plate, it’s no wonder how he strung a streak like this together. On his way to a third consecutive MVP award last season, he slashed .282/.392/.622 with 55 homers and 102 RBIs. He’s right back on track for another electric season despite a slow start to the year, posting a .282/.388/.538 slash line with three homers.

While the superstar only had three hits through the first two series of the season, his high walk rate has kept his streak alive.

Ohtani will try to tie the streak by the end of the Dodgers’ series against the Blue Jays, and has a shot to break the record against the Texas Rangers in front of the home fans.

Who Was Ichiro Suzuki?

Suzuki came to MLB from NPB in 2001, joining the Seattle Mariners. He played a huge role in the Mariners’ historic 116-win season that year, winning AL MVP in his first season in MLB with an MLB-leading 242 hits and 56 stolen bases with a .350 batting average.

He also won Rookie of the year, a Silver Slugger and a Gold Glove that year to go with his All-Star appearance.

Suzuki played 19 seasons in MLB—14 of which came with the Mariners—while making 10 All-Star Games, winning 10 Gold Gloves and three Silver Sluggers. He had a career .311 batting average, 117 home runs and 780 RBIs while stealing 509 bases.

The outfielder entered the Hall of Fame in 2025 on his first ballot.

Do you think Shohei Ohtani can add another record into his long list of accolades?