Shohei Ohtani earn an automatic starting spot in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game by virtue of receiving the most votes among all National League Players.
It marks Ohtani’s fifth consecutive All-Star selection and second since signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The two-way star batted second for the NL as their designated hitter in last year’s Midsummer Classic and went 1-for-2 with a three-run homer and walk.
With Ohtani now pitching again, some wondered whether he could take the mound in the 95th edition of the All-Star Game at Truist Park next month.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts quickly shut down the possibility of Ohtani pitching in this year’s All-Star Game but confirmed he will bat leadoff for the NL, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
As the manager of the NL stars, though, will Roberts ask Ohtani to pitch? “No,” Roberts said quickly.
But will he bat leadoff? “Yes,” he said just as quickly.
Ohtani only recently returned to the mound after a nearly two-year hiatus, so it makes sense the Dodgers wouldn’t want to risk an injury in an exhibition game.
Ohtani has pitched twice with the Dodgers thus far and is making his next appearance on Saturday when the team takes on the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
Ohtani batting leadoff for the NL also comes at a time in which Roberts has considered dropping him in the Dodgers lineup on his pitching days to take some pressure away from his two-way role.
Shohei Ohtani’s Home Run Derby decision looming?
With Ohtani expected to garner plenty of attention at the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, there has also been some talk of the 30-year-old potentially participating in the Home Run Derby.
Ohtani previously took part in the 2021 competition, when he lost to Juan Soto in the first round.
When asked if Ohtani would participate in this year’s event, Roberts said he would leave the decision up to the three-time MVP Award winner.
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