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.
