Shohei Ohtani, the multifaceted star of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has set his sights on participating in the Home Run Derby next month. Ohtani, renowned for his remarkable talent both on the mound and at the plate, hinted at his desire to join the prestigious event, though several hurdles remain. "I have to get an offer [to participate] first. 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," Ohtani shared.
Ohtani's dual role as both a top-tier pitcher and a slugger has made him a standout figure in Major League Baseball. However, this season, the Japanese sensation has been focused solely on hitting as he continues to recover from elbow surgery undergone last September. Despite this, he has been nothing short of phenomenal, boasting a batting average of .320 with a .398 on-base percentage and a slugging percentage of .634. These numbers not only highlight his prowess but also underscore why he leads the NL with 24 home runs and 196 total bases.
Participation in the Home Run Derby, though thrilling for fans, requires more than just a desire from the player. Ohtani needs the green light from multiple parties before he can step into the batter’s box. This includes approval from his doctor, the team’s trainers, and the Dodgers' management. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed mixed feelings regarding Ohtani’s potential participation, saying, "I'd probably not want him to do it, but I'll support him no matter what he decides to do. 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."
Given Ohtani’s recuperative state and the caution surrounding his return to full participation, there are understandable reservations. "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby," noted a Dodgers insider, pointing out the distinct physical demands and stress that the competition entails.
This isn’t the first time Ohtani has eyed the Home Run Derby. In 2021, he made a memorable appearance, being eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker. His performance, though short-lived, left a lasting impression and reinforced his status as one of the game's brightest stars.
Beyond his Derby aspirations, Ohtani continues to captivate fans and dominate fan voting for NL designated hitters in the upcoming All-Star Game. His magnetism and exceptional skill set have drawn considerable attention to both him and the Dodgers, boosting overall engagement in the sport.
The final roster of participants for this year’s Home Run Derby is set to be announced within the next two weeks. While fans eagerly await the line-up, one notable absence will be Aaron Judge, who has opted out of the competition this year. Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, will host the event on Monday, July 15, setting the stage for another electrifying showdown of long-ball hitters.
If Ohtani does get the all-clear from all necessary parties, his participation would certainly add a layer of excitement and prestige to the event. His blend of power and precision represents the pinnacle of modern baseball capabilities. Until then, the baseball world watches with bated breath, hoping to see one of its brightest stars shine on one of its biggest stages.