Ohtani Eyes Home Run Derby Amid Recovery and Approvals
Shohei Ohtani, the celebrated two-way sensation, has his sights set on participating in next month's Home Run Derby. The Los Angeles Dodgers star, who is renowned both as a formidable pitcher and a powerful hitter, has been limited to swinging the bat this season as he continues to recover from elbow surgery undergone last September.
Securing his spot in the Home Run Derby lineup is no straightforward task for Ohtani. He needs approval from multiple fronts: his doctor, trainers, and the Dodgers' management. In a candid expression of his thoughts, Ohtani said, "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."
This season, Ohtani has been nothing short of spectacular in the batter’s box. Currently hitting .320/.398/.634, he leads the National League with 24 home runs and has accumulated a league-leading 196 total bases. His stellar performance extends beyond regular season metrics; he has also led the All-Star Game fan voting for NL designated hitters.
However, the pathway to the Home Run Derby includes hurdles beyond just physical health. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has openly harbored reservations about Ohtani participating in the Derby. "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," said Roberts.
Participating in the Home Run Derby isn't new terrain for Ohtani. In 2021, he was a part of the electrifying event, although he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a compelling swing-off tiebreaker. This year’s Home Run Derby is set to take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15. With the announcement of the participants expected within the next two weeks, all eyes are on whether Ohtani will make the cut.
The difference between game atmosphere and derby ambiance was also highlighted by a Dodgers insider, who remarked, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby." These nuances present additional considerations for Ohtani as he continues his impressive season.
One notable absence from this year's competition will be Aaron Judge, who has decided not to participate. Judge's absence could further spotlight Ohtani’s potential participation, making it all the more eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike.
As Ohtani navigates the complexities of his recovery and the need for multiple approvals, the baseball world remains on stand-by, eager for one of the sport’s brightest stars to illuminate the Home Run Derby stage once again.