MLB All-Star Game: Shohei Ohtani Selected as DH, Not Pitcher

Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese superstar for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been named a starting designated hitter for the National League in the 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. He secured this position by receiving the highest number of fan votes across MLB, with over 3.3 million votes. This marks Ohtani's sixth All-Star selection and his sixth time starting as a designated hitter, surpassing David Ortiz's record.

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If we get them and they are dead, then you resign yourself, but we are not God to know.

While Ohtani was a fan favorite for a starting DH spot, he was not selected as a pitcher for the game. This comes despite his return to two-way play this season. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had previously indicated that Ohtani likely wouldn't pitch in the All-Star Game even if selected, due to his pitching rotation schedule.

Ohtani previously made history in 2021 by being selected as both a pitcher and a hitter in the same year, a feat he repeated for three consecutive years. This year's exclusion as a pitcher means he will not participate as a "two-way player" in the midsummer classic.

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For me, Lía Valentina is alive and I am going to keep fighting.

The Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, and Los Angeles Dodgers each have the most All-Stars with five players apiece. Notable selections include first baseman Freddie Freeman and left-handed ace Chris Sale for the Braves, both making their 10th All-Star appearance. Phillies star Bryce Harper was selected as a "Legend Pick" for his ninth appearance. Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels was named a starting outfielder for the American League, extending his record for active players with his 12th All-Star selection.

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They left their countries to come and lend a helping hand to the Venezuelan people. This is the universal solidarity that should inspire the peoples of the world.

A total of 26 players will make their All-Star debut, including four rookies: Kevin McGonigle and Sal Stewart (infielders), Parker Messick and Travis Bazzana (pitcher and infielder, respectively). The 2026 MLB All-Star Game is scheduled for July 14 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. John Schneider of the Toronto Blue Jays will manage the American League team, while Dave Roberts of the Dodgers will manage the National League.

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No one is helping us to get up to the structure, but there are still many people up there. We feel alone, with barely our hands, doing the best we can. Only volunteers have supported us with tools and food. From the government, nothing, not even rescuers. We need machines, a telescopic crane. We thank you, please.