**Shohei Ohtani Eyes Triple Crown in Stellar Late-Season Surge**

DENVER -- Shohei Ohtani continues to dominate for the NL West-champion Dodgers, significantly boosting his bid for the Triple Crown with an impressive series of performances. In an 11-4 triumph over the Colorado Rockies on Friday, the multifaceted designated hitter went 4 for 5, including his 54th homer of the season and his 57th stolen base.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his confidence in Ohtani's chances, noting, "I'm personally invested in the Triple Crown. I know he's cognizant of it." Ohtani currently leads the NL in homers (54) and RBIs (130) and has raised his batting average to .309, trailing only Luis Arráez of the San Diego Padres, who holds a .314 average.

Teammate Chris Taylor commended Ohtani's form, stating, "He's locked in. We're all just watching him continue to have a good year and he's finishing it strong." Ohtani's recent stats back up Taylor's claims: over his last 34 at-bats, he has amassed 24 hits, six doubles, six homers, 20 RBIs, and eight steals.

Friday's game also saw Ohtani pass Ichiro Suzuki for the most stolen bases in a single season by a Japanese-born player, achieving his 57th steal of the season. Ohtani's 34 consecutive successful steals mark the second-longest streak in franchise history, just four shy of matching Davey Lopes' record set in 1975.

In terms of total bases, Ohtani has now accumulated 408 for the season, second in franchise history behind Babe Herman's record of 416 set in 1930. Rockies manager Bud Black praised Ohtani's presence on the field, recognizing his power and strength as key factors in his performance.

As Ohtani prepares for his first postseason experience, having clinched the third straight NL West title by winning two out of three pivotal games against San Diego, he remains the player to watch. Taylor highlighted the significance of these games, noting, "This is a different environment for you and that intensity will bring out a new side of a player."