Ohtani Eyes Home Run Derby Amid Rehabilitation
Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation of the Los Angeles Dodgers, is making headlines yet again. The superstar has expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby, scheduled to take place on July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. However, a multitude of factors could influence his participation in the event.
Ohtani, renowned for his extraordinary skills both as a pitcher and a batter, is currently in the midst of an impressive season. Despite exclusively hitting this year while recuperating from elbow surgery he underwent last September, he is putting up stellar numbers. With a .320/.398/.634 slash line, Ohtani leads the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases, underscoring his prowess at the plate.
Yet, the path to the Home Run Derby is fraught with potential hurdles for Ohtani. "I have to get an offer (to participate) first," Ohtani remarked. "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."
Concerns from the Dodgers Camp
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts has expressed his reservations regarding Ohtani's participation in the Derby. "I'd probably not want him to do it, but I'll support him no matter what he decides to do," Roberts shared. "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."
His concerns are not unfounded. Participating in the Home Run Derby can be physically taxing, a factor that is particularly significant for a player recovering from surgery. A Dodgers insider noted, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby."
Ohtani’s Previous Derby Experience
This would not be Ohtani's first foray into the Home Run Derby. In 2021, he participated in the event but was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker. Despite the early exit, his participation was a highlight, boosting viewership and excitement around the competition.
This year, Ohtani has continued to capture the hearts of baseball fans, leading the All-Star Game fan-voting for NL designated hitters. His potential participation in the Home Run Derby could similarly draw eyes and excitement to the event.
Final Decision Pending
The final roster of participants for the Home Run Derby will be announced within the next two weeks. While Aaron Judge, another heavyweight in the world of baseball, has confirmed he will not be participating, the spotlight remains on Ohtani. Should he get the necessary approvals and choose to compete, it would undoubtedly enhance the allure of the event.
For now, fans and analysts alike wait in anticipation to see whether Shohei Ohtani will once again grace the Home Run Derby stage, bringing with him the electrifying talent that has come to define his career in Major League Baseball.