Shohei Ohtani's Potential Participation in Home Run Derby
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has expressed a keen desire to compete in next month's Home Run Derby. Known for his remarkable dual capabilities as both a pitcher and a slugger, Ohtani's potential participation in the iconic event is generating significant buzz in the baseball community.
This season, Ohtani has been limited to hitting duties as he continues to recuperate from elbow surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament, which he underwent last September. Despite this, he has posted impressive numbers, hitting .320/.398/.634, and currently leads the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases. In addition, Ohtani has been leading the All-Star Game fan-voting for National League designated hitters, underscoring his immense popularity and performance.
While Ohtani's interest in the Home Run Derby is clear, he faces multiple hurdles before he can step up to the plate. "I have to get an offer (to participate) first," Ohtani explained. "I'm also rehabilitating, so I need the doctor's approval, the trainers' approval, and the team's approval. Of course, I have feelings of wanting to do it. I think any player would. I think it depends on how it lines up with the other parts."
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed reservations about Ohtani’s potential participation. "I'd probably not want him to do it, but I'll support him no matter what he decides to do," Roberts said. "For the game, I think it's great ... Obviously, he's the biggest star in the game, and it makes (the Home Run Derby) more attractive."
A Dodgers insider added, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby," highlighting the specific demands and potential stresses the event could place on a player recovering from surgery. As Ohtani's medical and training team evaluates his readiness, their decision will weigh heavily on his final participation.
The roster for this year’s Home Run Derby, set to unfold on Monday, July 15, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, will be announced within the next two weeks. If Ohtani gets the green light, his participation will be a major storyline. It’s worth recalling that in the 2021 Home Run Derby, he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker, an event that only added to his legend.
A significant absence from this year’s competition is Aaron Judge. While Judge’s non-participation removes one marquee name from the lineup, the inclusion of Ohtani could more than fill that void, offering fans yet another opportunity to witness his extraordinary talent.
No matter the decision, Shohei Ohtani remains an undisputed star in Major League Baseball. His statistics this season alone cement his status, and any event featuring his abilities instantly becomes a must-watch affair. As fans and analysts eagerly await the final lineup, Ohtani’s potential participation stands as a focal point of excitement and speculation.