Shohei Ohtani Skips Pitching, Limits All-Star Break Workload

**Shohei Ohtani** will not pitch or enter the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game, as Dodgers manager Dave Roberts trims his workload during the July 8, 2026 break.

Roberts told reporters he will keep Ohtani out of the mound entirely and shut down any Home Run Derby plans. “Don’t see him in the Home Run Derby,” Roberts said, adding, “Don’t see him pitching. But I do see him taking an at‑bat or two.” The decision follows Ohtani’s next start on the Friday before the Midsummer Classic, leaving little recovery time.

Ohtani’s dual‑role makes him a rare asset. This season he boasts a 1.79 ERA over 85.2 innings and 95 strikeouts, ranking second in MLB among qualified pitchers. At the plate he has 20 homers, 56 RBIs and a .950 OPS, the NL’s second‑best behind Juan Soto. Protecting that value means limiting fatigue, especially with the All‑Star Game looming.

The National League’s leading vote‑getter, Ohtani will still appear in the All‑Star Game as a hitter. Roberts said he would love a full‑week rest, but Ohtani’s popularity makes his presence unavoidable. “When you’re Shohei, he understands the responsibility he has,” Roberts noted, hinting at a middle ground between rest and exposure.

Skipping his pitching duties removes a marquee attraction, yet Ohtani’s batting cameo keeps fans engaged. The move also signals a broader trend of load management for two‑way stars. If Ohtani stays healthy through the second half, the Dodgers retain a player who can dominate both sides of the diamond.

Roberts expects Ohtani to return to the rotation on the Friday after the All‑Star festivities, giving him a chance to recover before the next start. The Dodgers will monitor his innings closely, aiming to preserve his elite performance as the season heads into its final stretch.