Evaluating the Dodgers’ Historic Trio: Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman
Feb
The Dodgers boast a formidable trio in Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, raising the question of where they stand among the greatest lineup triumvirates in baseball history. Though they haven’t played together as a unit yet, the individual numbers and accolades these three bring into the 2024 season suggest they could be among the best ever.
Comparing with Baseball’s Great Trios
1963 Giants: Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Orlando Cepeda
- Criteria: 3 players with a 160 OPS+ or better
- A legendary trio, with McCovey’s breakout season, Mays’ consistent excellence, and Cepeda’s strong performance. Despite their firepower, the Giants finished third in the NL in 1963.
1927 Yankees: Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Earle Combs, Tony Lazzeri
- Criteria: At least 3 players with a bWAR of 6.0 or higher
- “Murders Row” featured Ruth and Gehrig in their peak seasons, complemented by Combs and Lazzeri. The 1927 Yankees were a juggernaut, winning 110 games and sweeping the World Series.
1978 Reds: Johnny Bench, George Foster, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose
- Criteria: At least 3 former MVPs in the lineup
- While boasting former MVPs, the 1978 Reds faced challenges with aging stars. Despite the accolades, they failed to make the playoffs.
2022-23 Braves: Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, Austin Riley
- Criteria: Most players with at least 78 extra-base hits
- Notable for the trio’s extraordinary extra-base hit production. The Braves set offensive records but fell short of a World Series title.
Ohtani/Betts/Freeman Comparison
The trio of Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman compares favorably:
- Ohtani: 2023 OPS+ of 184
- Betts: 2023 OPS+ of 163
- Freeman: 2023 OPS+ of 161
Their combined excellence places them in the company of historic trios, and the 2024 season holds the promise of witnessing this remarkable trio make its mark in baseball history.