Kevin Cash and the American League All-Star team hope that Shohei Ohtani doesn't use up too much energy in the Home Run Derby Monday evening, because he's slated to be front and center in Tuesday's All-Star Game.
Ohtani will lead off for the American League in the midsummer classic, and also serve as the team's starting pitcher.
"I'm really excited to play along with all the American League guys that I face during the season," Ohtani said through his translator Monday. "I'm also excited to face the National League players that I don't get a chance to face during the season. This is my first experience [in the All-Star Game], so I'm really excited."
Currently the favorite to win the American League MVP Award, Ohtani had a special first half as a two-way star for the Los Angeles Angels. The 27-year-old leads baseball with 33 home runs, and also has a 3.49 ERA in 13 starts for Joe Maddon.
Ohtani will be opposed by eight-time All-Star Max Scherzer, who will start for the National League. Tuesday will be Scherzer's fourth career All-Star Game start, and third for the National League.
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram