Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani appears to make history every day. Whether it’s a batting milestone, a pitching record, or something involving both, it’s been remarkable to see something that has not been done since Babe Ruth. His most recent history was becoming the first player in MLB history to be selected to the All-Star Game as a pitcher and a hitter.
Ohtani will be the starting designated hitter for the American League at the All-Star Game, and was also selected as a pitcher, meaning there was hope he would put his two-way skills to the test in Denver. The Angels — who have let Ohtani play as often as he’d like after years of cautiousness — said they would not stand in the way if he wanted to do that.
Angels manager Joe Maddon has now confirmed that, after a conversation with AL manager Kevin Cash, Ohtani will be pitching and hitting next week, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com:
“The conclusion is that he will pitch, but how it’s going to happen has not been concluded,” Maddon said. “There’s different ways to do it, obviously. He could start the game or come in game-in-progress. And how often do you hit him? And don’t forget he’ll be in the Home Run Derby the day before. There’s a lot going on there. But Shohei is into it. It’s not like we’re trying to push him into doing anything. We’re just trying to figure out the best way to do it.”
It will absolutely be interesting to see how Cash manages this situation, as it will be the first time it’s ever needed to be done. However, fans will absolutely check in regardless to see Ohtani go to work on the mound and at the plate in the All-Star Game.
Ohtani has become must-watch television every time he takes a baseball diamond, and July 13 at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado will be no different.
Home Run Derby taking shape
Ohtani was the first to announce his appearance in the 2021 Home Run Derby, making him the first Japanese-born player and the first player to ever start a game as a pitcher to compete in the Derby. The competition takes place the day before the All-Star Game on July 12 with six of the eight participants ready to go:
Shohei Ohtani, Angels
Salvador Perez, Royals
Pete Alonso, Mets
Trevor Story, Rockies
Trey Mancini, Orioles
Matt Olson, Athletics
