Shohei Ohtani’s interest in participating in the upcoming Home Run Derby has garnered significant attention in the baseball community. The star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has a remarkable reputation for his dual capabilities as a pitcher and slugger, has expressed his desire to join the prestigious event next month. However, several hurdles remain before he gets the green light to compete.
Aiming for the Derby
Shohei Ohtani, currently leading the National League with an impressive 24 home runs and 196 total bases, has openly shared his enthusiasm for the Home Run Derby. "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," Ohtani explained. "I think any player would. I think it depends on how it lines up with the other parts."
Ohtani’s journey this season has been marked by a keen focus on hitting, as he recovers from elbow surgery performed last September. Despite the recovery process, his current stats – a batting average of .320, an on-base percentage of .398, and a slugging percentage of .634 – reflect his dominating presence at the plate. His lead in the All-Star Game fan-voting for NL designated hitters further cements his status as a fan favorite and a powerhouse in the league.
Approval and Concerns
Despite his desire and remarkable performance, Ohtani's participation in the Home Run Derby is not solely his decision. Requiring approvals from medical professionals, trainers, and the Dodgers' management, adds layers of complexity to his ambitions. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has voiced his reservations about Ohtani's potential involvement. "I'd probably not want him to do it, but I'll support him no matter what he decides to do," Roberts stated. "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."
There are valid concerns regarding the physical toll that participating in a Home Run Derby could have, particularly for a player who is still completing his rehabilitation. As one Dodgers insider put it, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby." This distinction highlights the unique and strenuous demands the Derby places on its participants.
Anticipation Builds
The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the roster for the Home Run Derby is palpable, with decisions expected within the next two weeks. This year's event will be held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15. While the excitement for potential participants builds, notable absences like Aaron Judge, who will not be competing this year, have already been confirmed.
Ohtani's past performance in the 2021 Home Run Derby, where he was eliminated in a first-round swing-off tiebreaker by Juan Soto, adds an element of curiosity and hope to his potential return. Fans and analysts alike speculate about the impact he could make, given his current form and expressed willingness.
As the baseball world waits for the final participant announcements, the conversation around Ohtani continues to evolve. His contributions to the sport, both on the mound and at the plate, make him a singular talent and a compelling figure to watch. Whether or not he steps up to compete in the Home Run Derby this year, Ohtani's influence on the game remains undisputed, capturing the imagination of fans and the respect of his peers.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining Ohtani's participation, with each required approval carrying significant weight. Regardless of the outcome, the mere possibility of seeing one of baseball's brightest stars on such a prominent stage ensures that the buildup to this year's Home Run Derby will be one to remember.