In what has quickly become a highlight of the baseball calendar, fans may soon witness the electrifying Shohei Ohtani stepping up to the plate during the Home Run Derby next month. The dual-threat phenom has expressed a strong desire to participate, though several hurdles remain before the Los Angeles Dodgers' superstar can confirm his participation.
The Dual Prowess of Ohtani
Shohei Ohtani, known for his exceptional skills both as a pitcher and a slugger, has been a game-changer since his arrival in Major League Baseball. This season, Ohtani has focused solely on hitting as he recuperates from elbow surgery performed last September. Despite this, his performance at the plate has been nothing short of stellar. Ohtani is currently hitting .320/.398/.634, leading the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases.
"I have to get an offer (to participate) first," Ohtani remarked when asked about entering the renowned Home Run Derby. "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."
Managerial Reservations and Support
While Ohtani's participation would certainly add excitement to the event, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed his reservations. "I'd probably not want him to do it, but I'll support him no matter what he decides to do," Roberts stated. "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."
Participating in the Derby would indeed provide a significant boost to the event, given Ohtani's status as a top fan-vote getter for the NL designated hitters in the upcoming All-Star Game. However, the concerns about his participation stem from the potential physical strain and the implications for his ongoing rehabilitation.
A Return to the Derby
Ohtani is no stranger to the Home Run Derby. He last participated in the 2021 edition of the event. Despite a strong showing, he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto after a swing-off tiebreaker. This year's event is set to take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15. The full roster of participants will be announced within the next two weeks, and Ohtani's potential inclusion has become a major talking point among fans and analysts alike.
It's worth noting that hitting in a game differs significantly from competing in a Home Run Derby, an aspect highlighted by a Dodgers insider: "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby." This distinction underscores the rigorous evaluation process that Ohtani must navigate before making his final decision.
Awaiting Confirmation
As the Derby approaches, all eyes are on Ohtani. With his impressive statistics this season and his visible determination, his participation could be a game-changer for the competition. Ohtani's inclusion would not only elevate the prestige of the event but also provide a thrilling spectacle for fans globally.
One star who will not be attending this year's competition is Aaron Judge, adding further anticipation to Ohtani's potential involvement. As fans hold their breath, the baseball world eagerly awaits the final lineup and the possibility of witnessing one of the sport's brightest stars shine on one of its biggest stages.