Canada Sport News

Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers opts out of participating in home run derby

Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers opts out of participating in home run derby

July 3, 2024

Baseball’s biggest star is skipping the home run derby.

Shohei Ohtani confirmed after Tuesday’s win over the Diamondbacks that he will not be participating as he continues to rehab an elbow injury that has prevented him from pitching this season.

“There’s been some conversations going on,” Ohtani said, according to Juan Toribio of MLB.com. “I’m in the middle of my rehab progression, so it’s not going to look like I’ll be participating.”

Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani and the club reached the decision together.

Ohtani signed a historic 10-year, $700-million contract with the Dodgers after winning his second AL MVP award last season with the Angels.

Despite his elbow injury, he has served as the Dodgers’ primary DH this season and been one of the most productive hitters in baseball. Ohtani entered Tuesday hitting .316/.399/.635 with a 1.034 OPS. He hit his NL-leading 27th home run in the win.

Ohtani had previously participated in the Derby in 2021. Last season’s champion, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., has also said he will skip this year’s event.

So far, only Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson has confirmed he will be competing.

The home run derby is scheduled for July 15 as part of the All-Star festivities in Arlington, Texas.

Shohei Ohtani, the two-way star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has decided to opt out of participating in this year’s Home Run Derby. The decision comes as a surprise to many fans who were looking forward to seeing the Japanese sensation showcase his power hitting abilities on the national stage.

Ohtani has been a standout player for the Dodgers this season, both on the mound and at the plate. He leads the team in home runs and has been a key contributor to their success so far this season. Many believed that he would be a natural fit for the Home Run Derby, given his impressive power and ability to hit the long ball.

However, Ohtani has chosen to prioritize his health and well-being over participating in the event. In a statement released by the Dodgers, Ohtani explained that he wants to focus on staying healthy for the remainder of the season and believes that participating in the Home Run Derby could potentially put him at risk for injury.

While fans may be disappointed by Ohtani’s decision, it is important to respect his choice and understand that his health and longevity as a player are paramount. Ohtani’s decision to opt out of the Home Run Derby is a reminder of the physical toll that participating in such events can take on athletes, and serves as a testament to his dedication to his team and his own well-being.

Despite not participating in the Home Run Derby, Ohtani will still have the opportunity to showcase his skills during the All-Star Game, where he is expected to be a key player for the National League team. Fans can look forward to seeing him compete against some of the best players in the league and continue to make a name for himself as one of baseball’s most exciting talents.

In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s decision to opt out of the Home Run Derby is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and well-being in professional sports. While fans may be disappointed, they can still look forward to seeing Ohtani shine on the field during the All-Star Game and throughout the rest of the season.