Ohtani Sets Sights on Home Run Derby: Baseball's Biggest Star Eyes All-Star Event Amid Recovery
Shohei Ohtani, one of the most electrifying talents in Major League Baseball, has expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby scheduled for next month. The Los Angeles Dodgers star, known for his incredible dual capabilities as both a pitcher and a slugger, has captured the fascination of fans and analysts alike.
This season, Ohtani's role has been limited to batting as he continues his recovery from elbow surgery performed last September. Despite this, his performance at the plate has been nothing short of spectacular. He's currently boasting a .320/.398/.634 slash line, leading the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases.
"I have to get an offer (to participate) first," Ohtani said. "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."
However, the decision to compete in the Home Run Derby isn't solely up to Ohtani. He requires a green light from multiple parties, including the team's medical staff and management. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, although supportive of Ohtani's aspirations, expressed reservations about his 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."
The Home Run Derby is a highlight of the All-Star festivities, promising entertainment and showcasing the league's premier power hitters. Yet, it also poses a risk to players who exert themselves in the contest. As one Dodgers insider pointed out, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby."
Ohtani's previous experience in the event came during the 2021 Home Run Derby, where he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto following a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker. This year, amid his impressive season and leading the fan-voting for NL designated hitters in the All-Star Game, his potential participation would undoubtedly boost the event’s star power.
Looking ahead, the roster of participants for this year's Home Run Derby will be revealed within the next two weeks. Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, is set to host the spectacle on Monday, July 15. While fans eagerly anticipate the announcement, it has been confirmed that Aaron Judge will not be competing in this year's Derby.
The focus now remains on Ohtani’s recovery and the crucial decisions concerning his participation. Should all approvals be met, it would pave the way for one of baseball’s brightest stars to dazzle again on one of the sport's grandest stages.
For now, the baseball world watches and waits, hoping to see Shohei Ohtani step up to the plate in what could be an unforgettable Home Run Derby.