“If I was chosen, I was chosen, and I would like to think again.”
■ Angels 5-0 Royals (Anaheim, Japan time 23rd)
Pitcher Shohei Ohtani mentioned the Home Run Derby (July 18, Los Angeles), which will be held on the eve of the ball banquet on the 22nd (23rd Japan time). He showed a positive attitude, “Of course, it’s an honor,” but he had a complicated expression, “It depends on where you throw it during the season. It will change a little depending on the schedule.”
Otani made his first Japanese appearance in Home Run Derby last summer, but lost in the first round. Lost to Nationals outfielder Juan Soto after two tiebreakers. When asked about pitching in the All-Star game and home run derby, “I can’t get out unless I’m selected, and I have to do my best to be selected as an All-Star. If I’m selected, I’d like to think again.” I just talked to him.
In the match against the Royals, the home base of the day, he scored 13 strikeouts, the highest number of his own, and made a good throw with 2 hits and no runs in the 8th inning. He won his sixth win of the season. Will he be the protagonist of the All-Star Game this summer as well?
(Koji Bonkobara / Koji Bonkobara)
