Shohei Ohtani does not plan to pitch in the MLB All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium and will focus on batting leadoff as the American League's starting designated hitter, the Los Angeles Angels two-way superstar said Monday.
Speaking to reporters before Tuesday's Midsummer Classic, Ohtani said he wanted to skip the mound in order to keep his arm fresh for his next scheduled start for the Angels on Friday in Atlanta.
"I'm pitching the first game out of the All-Star break, so I'd only have two days in between," Ohtani said. "I obviously prioritize the season over the All-Star Game."
Ohtani made history in 2021 at Denver's Coors Field when he became the first player to ever start on the mound, bat leadoff and earn the win in a single All-Star Game.
After winning the fan vote to start at DH for the AL this year, he will be first up to face National League starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw at Dodger Stadium.
The reigning AL MVP is 0-for-8 in his career against Kershaw and is excited to battle the Los Angeles Dodgers' veteran lefty on his home field.
"In terms of his level of completion as a pitcher, he is far and away the best," Ohtani said. "I couldn't hit him last time we played, so I really want to lock in my swing and get a hit this time."
Tampa Bay Rays southpaw Shane McClanahan, who leads the MLB with a 1.71 ERA, will start on the mound for the AL.
Ohtani said he felt more relaxed about this year's All-Star festivities compared to his debut appearance last season.
"I'm happy just being able to play here," he said. "I was nervous last year, but I'm enjoying it this year."
"Knowing how everything runs makes a difference. Now I want to concentrate more on my at-bats."
Amid intensifying media speculation about whether he will remain with the Angels beyond his current contract, Ohtani was noncommittal when pressed on the issue by reporters.
"As long as I'm with the Angels, I want to do my job the best I can," he said.
"To be honest, I'm not even sure what will happen in the future. More than my feelings, it depends on what the organization does. I won't worry about things that are out of my control."
The 28-year-old said he was nevertheless confident the 39-53 Halos could shake out of their slump and make a strong showing in the second half of the season.
"I'm confident we will get wins," he said. "We were winning a lot early in the season. If we get some momentum, I think we can get back into a good flow. I'll be doing my best to play an active role and provide momentum."
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