Shohei Ohtani predicted to finish top-five in Cy Young voting

Shohei Ohtani is making history again in 2026. The Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way sensation is on track for a top-five finish in NL Cy Young voting, according to Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report. Despite limited innings, Ohtani's 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85.2 innings have cemented his place among baseball's elite pitchers this season.

What makes Ohtani's Cy Young case unique?

Ohtani's dual-threat status complicates his Cy Young chances. While he's been one of MLB's best pitchers, his 14 starts by the All-Star break mean he won't accumulate the innings of traditional aces. Yet his dominance-8-2 record, 1.79 ERA-puts him in rare company. The last two-way player to finish top-five in Cy Young voting was Babe Ruth in 1918.

Why this prediction matters

A top-five Cy Young finish would cap an all-time great season. Ohtani is already a lock for NL MVP, but adding Cy Young recognition would solidify his place among baseball's greatest. His .942 OPS at the plate paired with elite pitching makes this a historic campaign. Only one other time in his career (2022) has Ohtani finished top-five in Cy Young voting.

The competition ahead

Ohtani faces stiff competition from Jacob Misiorowski, Chase Burns, and Zack Wheeler. These pitchers will likely surpass him in innings pitched, but Ohtani's per-start dominance could sway voters. His 95 strikeouts in 85.2 innings give him a 10.1 K/9 rate, among the league's best. If he maintains this pace, he could become the first two-way player to finish top-five in both MVP and Cy Young voting in the same season since Ruth.

What's next for Ohtani?

With the All-Star break behind him, Ohtani will look to build on his Cy Young case. The Dodgers' playoff push gives him a high-stakes stage to showcase his two-way brilliance. If he can extend his current form, he might even challenge for the award outright-though the innings hurdle remains. One thing is certain: Ohtani's 2026 season is already one for the ages.