As the MLB All-Star break approaches, fans are surely hoping to see Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani put on a show at the Home Run Derby.
However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is not among those interested in seeing his star slugger participate in the event.
Per ESPN, Roberts told reporters on Wednesday that he would “probably not” want Ohtani to take part in the Derby because of the “rounds and rounds” of swings, adding that it could potentially impact his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery.
“The one side of it, for him to be in the Home Run Derby, it’s great for baseball, clearly,” Roberts said prior to Wednesday night’s 4-0 win over the Chicago White Sox. “The other side of it, on the manager of the Dodgers side of it, you’re trying to be more cautious and appreciating the fact that there’s a lot more swings, higher intensity, you know, going through the rehab process with his elbow.”
Ohtani underwent the procedure last September when he was still a member of the Los Angeles Angels, and the two-way phenom has been limited to hitting while expecting to resume pitching in 2025. The injury hasn’t stopped him from excelling at the plate, as he leads the majors with a .322 batting average and hit his NL-leading 25th home run in Wednesday’s victory.
Ohtani, who participated in the Derby once in his career in 2021 and was eliminated in the first round after a memorable swing-off with Juan Soto, said Tuesday that he had “feelings of wanting to do it” this year but would talk it over with Roberts and the medical staff. He reiterated his stance on Wednesday.
“It hasn’t really changed much since yesterday,” Ohtani said. “It’s something I have to talk to a lot of people about and make a decision.”
Christine Lake is a sports fanatic who lives and breathes athletics. With an extensive background in sports journalism, he covers everything from major league championships to grassroots sports events. When she’s not on the field or at the stadium, you’ll find Christine coaching youth sports teams.
