Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has set his sights on participating in the Home Run Derby next month. Despite his eagerness, his participation is steeped in uncertainty due to multiple layers of required approvals and reservations from key figures within the Dodgers' organization.
Ohtani's Ambitions and Recovery
The Japanese star, known for his exceptional skills both as a pitcher and a slugger, has been primarily focused on batting this season as he continues recovering from elbow surgery performed last September. In a recent statement, Ohtani expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "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."
Currently, Ohtani boasts impressive statistics, hitting .320/.398/.634 for the season. He leads the National League with 24 home runs and has accumulated 196 total bases. His prowess at the plate has also secured him the top spot in All-Star Game fan voting for NL designated hitters.
Manager's Reservations
Despite Ohtani's clear enthusiasm, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed some hesitation about the star 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," Roberts commented. These mixed feelings underscore the delicate balance between player health and fan engagement.
Multiple Approvals Required
Ohtani's participation hinges on several critical approvals. As he himself pointed out, both medical clearances and team consent are necessary before he can officially enter the competition. "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby," one Dodgers insider noted, highlighting the unique demands and potential risks associated with the event.
Historic Context and Venue
In the 2021 Home Run Derby, Ohtani's bid was cut short when he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a swing-off tiebreaker. This year, the event is set to take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15. The final roster of participants will be announced within the next two weeks, with one noticeable absence already confirmed—New York Yankees' Aaron Judge will not be participating in this year's competition.
As the baseball world waits with bated breath, the potential inclusion of Shohei Ohtani in the Home Run Derby promises to add another layer of excitement to an already thrilling event. Whether he clears all the necessary hurdles remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Ohtani's desire to showcase his power on one of the sport's biggest stages is as strong as ever.