Ohtani Eyes Home Run Derby Amid Roadblocks and Reservations
As the buzz around the upcoming Home Run Derby intensifies, one name stands out in the crowd: Shohei Ohtani. The Los Angeles Dodgers star has expressed his desire to take part in the event next month, yet his participation remains uncertain due to several hurdles. Ohtani, who is renowned for his exceptional skills both as a pitcher and a slugger, is currently dedicated solely to hitting as he recovers from elbow surgery he underwent 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. 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 stated, emphasizing the complexity of his situation.
Despite his clear enthusiasm for participating in the Derby, Ohtani's journey to the event isn't straightforward. He needs multiple levels of clearance including from his medical team, trainers, and the Dodgers' management. The looming question is whether these approvals will align in favor of his participation.
One pivotal figure in this decision is Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who has expressed 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. 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 remarked. The manager's cautious stance reflects a balance between the team's priorities and Ohtani’s ambitions.
Ohtani’s performance this season underscores why his participation would be a major draw for the event. He is hitting at a superb .320/.398/.634 clip and leads the National League with 24 home runs and 196 total bases. His prowess at the plate makes him one of the most formidable hitters in the league, further tantalizing fans with the prospect of his appearance in the Derby.
However, as one Dodgers insider pointed out, there’s a distinct difference between hitting in games and competing in a Home Run Derby. The rigorous nature of the Derby, with its extended swings and power-hitting focus, can pose risks, particularly for someone in Ohtani’s post-surgery recovery phase.
This scenario is reminiscent of Ohtani's 2021 Home Run Derby appearance, where he was ousted in the first round by Juan Soto in a gripping swing-off tiebreaker. Fans and analysts alike remember the electric atmosphere he brought to the event, adding to the anticipatory excitement for a possible redux this year.
Adding another layer to the narrative, Ohtani has also led the All-Star Game fan-voting for NL designated hitters, cementing his status as a fan favorite and validating the anticipation surrounding his potential Derby participation.
As the roster for the Home Run Derby, to be hosted at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, July 15, awaits announcement in the next two weeks, fans and followers are keeping a close watch on Ohtani’s journey. Notably, another major league star, Aaron Judge, has already announced he will not participate this year, increasing the spotlight on potential contenders like Ohtani.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani's potential entry into the Home Run Derby is wrapped in layers of medical, managerial, and personal considerations. While his presence would undeniably elevate the event’s allure, the final decision will hinge on multiple approvals and the alignment of his rehabilitation process with the demanding nature of the competition. As fans hold their breath, the narrative of Ohtani's possible Derby appearance continues to evolve, promising either way to make headlines in the baseball world.