Angels’ Shohei Ohtani named to All-Star Game pitching staff
ANAHEIM — Shohei Ohtani was selected to the American League pitching staff, the only Angels player added to the roster Sunday for MLB’s annual All-Star Game July 11 in Seattle.
Uniquely, Ohtani was already on the AL roster. On Thursday, he was chosen in an online poll to start at designated hitter, his third consecutive All-Star fan selection as a DH. Ohtani leads the major leagues in home runs with 30.
Among American League pitchers, Ohtani ranks seventh in ERA (3.02), fifth in WHIP (1.04), second in strikeouts (127), and first in opponents’ batting average against (.180).
Ohtani also started the 2021 All-Star Game in Denver as a pitcher and designated hitter. Manager Phil Nevin said he’s unsure if Ohtani will choose to pitch this year as well.
As the manager of the reigning pennant winner, Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker is managing the AL All-Star team. He might be inclined to give one of his own pitchers the starting assignment as a ceremonial measure of respect.
Astros pitcher Framber Valdez leads the AL in ERA at 2.49, and has thrown more innings than Ohtani (105 compared to 95⅓) in the same number of starts. The left-hander would be eligible to pitch in the All-Star Game if he does not start for the Astros on July 9, their last regular-season game before the break.
Ohtani’s last start prior to the All-Star break is scheduled for Tuesday in San Diego. His first start after the break, Nevin said, will come “right away.” The Angels host the Astros on July 14.
Among the preliminary AL roster snubs, Angels closer Carlos Estevez has a strong case to be chosen as an injury replacement between now and July 11.
The veteran right-hander is 20 for 20 converting save situations in his first season as an Angel to go with a 1.91 ERA. Only three AL closers have more saves this season, and none has converted all of his save opportunities.
“That one’s a tough one for me,” Nevin said. “As far as closers go … I’m not sure what it takes to be deserving. I’m certainly happy to have him on my side now. Things can change throughout the week and hopefully he gets a chance to go.”