Shohei Ohtani Eyes Home Run Derby Amid Recovery
In a sport where dual talents are rare, Shohei Ohtani continues to captivate the baseball world with his extraordinary skills. The Los Angeles Dodgers' star has recently expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby, despite currently focusing solely on hitting due to his recuperation from elbow surgery last September.
"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," Ohtani said. "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."
As Ohtani charts his course back to full fitness, his performances at the plate have showcased his exceptional talent. This season, he's posted an impressive .320/.398/.634 slash line and leads the National League (NL) with 24 home runs and 196 total bases. His prowess has earned him a leading spot in the All-Star Game fan-voting for NL designated hitters.
Given these accomplishments, Ohtani's participation in the Home Run Derby would certainly amp up the excitement for fans. However, his involvement hinges on several critical approvals. Both medical professionals and team trainers need to green-light his participation, while Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has also voiced his reservations.
"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," Roberts commented. "Obviously, he's the biggest star in the game, and it makes (the Home Run Derby) more attractive."
While Ohtani's intentions are clear, the decision is not as straightforward. The physical demands of a Home Run Derby differ significantly from regular in-game hitting, something pointed out by a Dodgers insider. "Hitting in games is different from hitting in a Home Run Derby," the insider noted, signaling the additional strain it might place on Ohtani’s recovering elbow.
All eyes are now on the Dodgers’ medical team and management as they deliberate on whether allowing Ohtani to compete aligns with his long-term recovery plans. Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, set to host the 2024 Home Run Derby on Monday, July 15, will eagerly await the lineup announcement, expected within the next two weeks.
In the 2021 Home Run Derby, Ohtani was a fan favorite but was eliminated in the first round by Juan Soto in a dramatic swing-off tiebreaker. Reentering the contest this year, under current circumstances, could provide a different narrative and elevate the event's appeal. However, not all stars will be present, as Aaron Judge has already declared he will not be participating in this year's competition.
As anticipation builds, Ohtani's stellar season has magnified the potential impact of his participation. His dual threat as both a pitcher and a slugger has long made him a unique figure in baseball, but this season, solely as a hitter, he has set benchmarks that only a handful of players could dream of matching.
Ultimately, the decision will reflect a balance between showcasing one of the game’s brightest stars and ensuring his health remains uncompromised. For Ohtani, the allure of the Home Run Derby is undeniable, yet the journey back from surgery requires a cautious approach.
The baseball community awaits with bated breath, ready to either cheer Ohtani in another Home Run Derby outing or support his continued recovery with hopes for many more seasons of his extraordinary talent. Whether or not he joins the fray in Texas, Shohei Ohtani’s name will undoubtedly remain synonymous with baseball excellence and relentless dedication.