Ohtani Hits 301st Career Homer Despite Knee Injury, Will Miss All-Star Game

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani launched his 301st career home run on Friday, a solo blast in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Japanese sensation connected on a 92.3 mph fastball from Diamondbacks left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez, sending the ball an estimated 381 feet to left-center field for his 21st home run of the season.

Ohtani's powerful display came despite him being scratched from his scheduled pitching start for the game due to a left knee injury. The injury has also ruled him out of participating in this year's All-Star Game. However, the knee issue did not appear to hinder his hitting prowess, as evidenced by his early home run.

The Dodgers, who were trailing 2-0 after the top of the first inning, benefited from Ohtani's long ball to get on the scoreboard. The very next batter, Andy Pages, followed up with a back-to-back home run, quickly tying the game for Los Angeles. Ohtani's milestone homer adds another significant achievement to his already storied career, even as he navigates injury concerns.