Los Angeles Angels designated hitter/starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani reacts during the 2021 MLB Home Run Derby. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Shohei Ohtani already looking forward to next Home Run Derby

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 7/14/21

No, Shohei Ohtani didn't get very far in this year's Home Run Derby, but the multi-faceted baseball sensation is already looking forward to participating in another one.

"I definitely want to participate again," Ohtani said through his interpreter, via ESPN's Jeff Passan. "But for that to happen, I need to have a good first half of that season."

That's some pretty humble talk coming from a guy who sent the ball into orbit during batting practice.

Here’s Shohei Ohtani literally almost hitting a baseball out of Coors Field during Home Run Derby batting practice. pic.twitter.com/5vfjwHLqAY
— Brent Maguire (@bmags94) July 12, 2021

The 27-year-old Angels star was a huge draw for this year's Midsummer Classic, starting as both a pitcher and designated hitter in Tuesday's All-Star Game in addition to participating in Monday's derby. On Monday, he smacked 28 homers in Round 1 but was edged out of the competition in an overtime battle vs. Nationals outfielder Juan Soto, who went yard 31 times. While Mets first baseman Pete Alonso successfully defended his derby title, many believed the Ohtani-Soto clash was the real highlight of the night's festivities.

Ohtani pitched a scoreless first inning and recorded the win as the American League beat the National League 5-2, although he also went 0-for-2 at the plate.

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