Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani put in another incredible performance Tuesday against the Chicago White Sox.
He gave up just one run in 6.1 innings while striking out 10 batters off the mound and hitting two home runs to reach his 28th for the season.
He leads the league in the latter category.
However, there were some health related issues that forced him off the mound.
He left the game as a pitcher with a coach, and while he remained as a designated hitter, there are concerns about one of his fingers.
“Shohei Ohtani dealt with a cracked right middle finger. He said he’s not sure what day his next start will be in San Diego. And he said he’s not sure about the Home Run Derby either until he knows when his last start will be before the break,” Angels insider Rhett Bollinger tweeted.
Shohei Ohtani faced a cracked right middle finger. He said he’s not sure what day his next start will be in San Diego. And he said he’s not sure about the Home Run Derby either until he knows when his last start will be before the break.
—Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) June 28, 2023
It would be truly unfortunate for the fans if a broken fingernail took away the chance to see Ohtani hit home run after home run in the Derby.
It’s not official yet, as he told Bollinger he’s not sure and it will depend on when he makes his last pitching appearance in the first half.
Still, one can understand the Angels if they encourage him not to participate in the Derby to preserve his health.
They’re 44-37 and actually in the AL West race, so being cautious around their star should be the way to go.
At least the injury concern is a broken nail and not an elbow or shoulder injury, so there is a silver lining for fans.
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Angels GM comments on being in awe of Shohei Ohtani
