Shohei Ohtani to Miss All-Star Game

Los Angeles Dodgers Deal with Knee Concern

The Dodgers announced that star pitcher‑hitter Shohei Ohtani will sit out next week’s All‑Star Game in Philadelphia. The decision follows a continued irritation in his left knee that also rules out his scheduled start against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday. Despite the mound absence, Ohtani will remain the team’s designated hitter through the weekend series.

After the D‑Backs series wraps on Sunday, the club says Ohtani will undergo “interventions” on his knee to prepare for the second half of the season. This procedure will keep him from participating in baseball’s midsummer showcase later that week. The timing adds a wrinkle to the Dodgers’ hopes for a strong second‑half push.

Why the Absence Matters for the Midsummer Classic

Ohtani’s removal from the All‑Star Game deprives the event of its most popular draw. The Japanese star, who turned 32 earlier this week, led MLB jersey sales last season and regularly tops fan polls for most‑wanted players. His absence reduces the excitement factor at Citizens Bank Park and may affect viewership metrics.

The loss is especially notable because Ohtani functions as a two‑way threat, combining elite hitting with dominant pitching. His jersey sales momentum could influence future All‑Star voting patterns, as fans adjust to a year without his dual‑role presence.

Recent Milestones and Statistical Snapshot

Ohtani capped a strong week by hitting his 300th career home run on Tuesday night. The leadoff shot came against Colorado Rockies pitcher Michael Lorenzen, marking him as the first Japanese‑born player to reach the milestone. That blast adds to his current .290 average and 20 home runs this season.

Beyond the plate, he is 8‑2 with a 1.79 ERA, striking out 95 batters in 85⅔ innings. Those numbers keep him among the league’s top performers and reinforce his reputation as baseball’s premier two‑way talent. His statistical output remains a key reason the Dodgers count on him despite health concerns.

What Lies Ahead for the Dodgers and Ohtani

The upcoming knee interventions are designed to set Ohtani up for the stretch run, where the Dodgers aim to chase a playoff spot. The medical work will be followed by a careful rehab schedule to ensure he returns at full strength.

If the procedure proceeds as planned, Ohtani could be back in uniform for the final two months of the season. His ability to both hit and pitch remains a strategic advantage, and a healthy Ohtani would give the Dodgers a legitimate chance at a deep postseason run.