Ohtani Eyes Home Run Derby Amid Injury Comeback
Shohei Ohtani, the multifaceted superstar of Major League Baseball, has expressed a keen interest in participating in the upcoming Home Run Derby. However, his journey to the popular event is far from straightforward. Ohtani, who currently shines for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is renowned for his unparalleled ability both as a pitcher and a slugger.
After undergoing elbow surgery last September, this season has seen Ohtani solely taking on hitting duties. With an impressive slash line of .320/.398/.634, he leads the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases. His performance has placed him at the forefront of the All-Star Game fan-voting for NL designated hitters, underlining his continued dominance at the plate.
Yet, Ohtani's aspiration to compete in the Home Run Derby hinges on receiving approvals from multiple quarters. "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," Ohtani explained.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds a cautious stance on the matter. "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 noted, highlighting the delicacy of balancing player health with the allure of star power.
While Ohtani's participation remains uncertain, his 2021 Home Run Derby experience serves as a motivating factor. That year, he was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker. His competitive spirit and desire for redemption are palpable.
This year's Home Run Derby will take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15, 2024. The roster of participants is anticipated to be announced within the next two weeks, stirring excitement among fans and media alike. One notable absentee will be Aaron Judge, whose decision to skip this year's competition has left a void in the lineup.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Ohtani's potential involvement, some voices within the Dodgers organization remain skeptical. A Dodgers insider remarked, "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby," underscoring the distinct nature of the event and its physical demands.
As Ohtani continues his season, his form at the plate and progress in recovery will be meticulously monitored. The prospect of seeing such a dynamic player in the Home Run Derby adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already thrilling baseball calendar.
The final decision, influenced by medical evaluations and team considerations, will ultimately shape Ohtani's path to the Home Run Derby. For now, the baseball world watches and waits, hopeful for a spectacle that showcases one of the sport's most electrifying talents.