Shohei Ohtani finished with the most votes among all National League players, and by virtue, received an automatic starting spot in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park.
Given his superstardom and popularity among fans, some wondered if Ohtani would also participate in the Home Run Derby next month. The 30-year-old previously competed in the 2021 Derby at Coors Field, when he was defeated by Juan Soto in the first round.
When asked about the possibility of Ohtani returning to the competition this year, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remarked that he would leave the decision up to the two-way star.
Ohtani has since provided some clarity and strongly implied he won’t participate in this year’s Home Run Derby, via SportsNet LA:
“With the current rules in place, I don’t think it’s feasible for me to be able to compete well.”
Ohtani is referring to the timed rounds in the Home Run Derby, which can be exhausting for some players. Participants now have three minutes or 40 pitches in the first two rounds to hit as many home runs as they can, after which they enter an untimed bonus period for a chance to add to their total before making three outs.
In the final round, the limits are reduced to two minutes and 27 pitches. Whoever hits the most home runs is declared champion.
In addition to Ohtani likely skipping the Home Run Derby this year, Roberts previously revealed that the three-time MVP Award winner won’t be pitching during the Midsummer Classic. However, Ohtani is expected to bat leadoff for the National League.
Ohtani is the second Dodgers player to seemingly pass on the Home Run Derby, as Teoscar Hernández revealed he won’t defend his title due to prioritizing health and the second half of the season.
Shohei Ohtani’s fastest pitch of MLB career
Ohtani made his third start with the Dodgers on Saturday and logged a season-high two innings pitched. He allowed two baserunners and no runs while recording a strikeout.
Ohtani touched 101.7 mph on a four-seam fastball that got Vinnie Pasquantino to ground into an inning-ending double play in the first. It’s the fastest pitch Ohtani has ever thrown in his MLB career.
Coincidentally, when Ohtani last reached 102 mph, it was in the World Baseball Classic when he faced Pasquantino as well.
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