Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has voiced his concern about Shohei Ohtani’s potential participation in the Home Run Derby. He believes that the physical exertion of the event could pose a risk to Ohtani’s rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery. Roberts mentioned that the event would require Ohtani to endure multiple rounds of swings, which could add a significant workload on his healing elbow. While Roberts acknowledged the positive impact of Ohtani’s presence in the Derby on baseball, he emphasized the need for caution and appreciation for the intensive rehabilitation process Ohtani is currently undergoing.
Despite Roberts’ reservations, Shohei Ohtani expressed his interest in participating in the Home Run Derby. After hitting his NL-leading 25th home run and owning an MLB-best .322 batting average, Ohtani admitted to having “feelings of wanting to do it.” However, he also acknowledged the importance of seeking approval from his doctors, trainers, and team before making a final decision. Ohtani’s willingness to engage in a dialogue with Roberts about the potential impact of the Derby on his rehabilitation demonstrates his commitment to prioritizing his recovery while balancing his competitive spirit.
The Ultimate Decision
Roberts highlighted the challenge of managing Ohtani’s desire to participate in the Derby while considering the potential risks involved. While he admitted that no manager would want their player to exert themselves with intense swings during a break, he recognized the allure of having Ohtani, one of the biggest stars in the game, in the competition. Roberts stated that he would ultimately defer to Ohtani’s decision, acknowledging the complexity of balancing Ohtani’s aspirations with the practical concerns regarding his physical condition post-surgery.
Shohei Ohtani has participated in the Home Run Derby once in his career, back in 2021, where he faced Juan Soto in a memorable swing-off during the first round. Despite not winning the competition, Ohtani’s past experience in the Derby adds a layer of familiarity with the event, which could influence his decision to participate again this year. The upcoming Home Run Derby, scheduled to take place at Globe Life Field in Texas on July 15, presents an opportunity for Ohtani to showcase his power and skill on a national stage while navigating the delicate balance between competition and recovery.
The debate surrounding Shohei Ohtani’s potential participation in the Home Run Derby underscores the complexity of managing elite athletes’ recovery and competitive aspirations. While Roberts raises valid concerns about the physical exertion of the event on Ohtani’s post-surgery rehabilitation, Ohtani’s genuine interest in competing and his track record of success in the past Derby add layers of complexity to the decision-making process. Ultimately, the collaboration between Ohtani, his medical team, and the Dodgers organization will play a crucial role in determining whether Ohtani will take part in this year’s Derby and how it may impact his overall recovery journey.
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