Shohei Ohtani is a generational talent, and he has once again proven this statement as true by becoming the first player in MLB history to achieve All-Star status as both a pitcher and a position player.
Offensively, Ohtani leads Major League Baseball in home runs, alongside 67 RBIs and a .278 batting average. It’s no surprise he has been given the nod to start in the designated hitter position with his impressive slugging power. Ohtani might also be able to show off his pitching prowess in the game, which has guided him through the regular season to a 3-1 record alongside a 3.60 ERA.
Ohtani’s widespread power pitching and hitting is well-recognized by those in the league as well. Outside of fan voting, Ohtani accumulated 121 votes from players, managers and coaches.
Angels’ manager Joe Madden commented on the historic nature of Ohtani’s time in the league.
“The guy’s going to participate in Home Run Derby, pitch in the game and hit in the game. That doesn’t happen like ever,” Madden said.
Babe Ruth is arguably the most well-known pitcher and position player, however, Ruth had given up pitching by the time the All-Star Game was introduced in 1933. In prior seasons he had been on the bump and in the batter’s box with regularity.
Ohtani did not directly speak with reporters, but released the following statement:
“It’s my first time so I just want to enjoy everything. There’s also the Home Run Derby, so I’m looking forward to taking it all in and enjoy everything,” the All-Star said in his statement.
Ohtani will be joined alongside a star-studded roster that includes names such as Gerrit Cole, Shane Bieber and Lance Lynn.
The game is scheduled to take place on July 13.
