ATLANTA — As the 2025 MLB All-Star Game arrives in Atlanta, Shohei Ohtani is once again at the center of attention. Though he won’t pitch in the Midsummer Classic while managing his ongoing recovery from surgery, the Dodgers superstar spoke candidly to the Japanese media about his evolving role, his mindset, and his life off the field during his media availability before the game.
Ohtani admitted that, despite his hitting prowess, the mound is where he still feels the most intensity. He said he tends to feel “the heat more when I’m pitching,” explaining that the high-pressure situations he faces as a pitcher naturally fire him up more than anything else on the field. Though he hasn’t returned to full pitching duties, he noted that his rehab has been progressing and that the plan was adjusted to allow for a slightly earlier return in shorter stints. He said, “Given the team’s needs and where I was in rehab, we decided on a slightly earlier return in shorter stints. As I build up more volume, I think I can really contribute well.”
Ohtani also took time to praise some of his teammates who have helped carry the Dodgers into first place, singling out relievers Jack Dreyer and Ben Casparius. He emphasized how impressed he’s been by the bullpen overall but highlighted those two specifically, saying they’ve played “huge roles for the team—willing to pitch in any situation, and they always seem to get the job done.”
When asked which pitcher he’d least like to face, Ohtani laughed and said, “If possible, I’d rather not face Skubal.” He explained that Tarik Skubal‘s fastball has “so much life” and that he comes right after hitters with high-level command, making it a challenge to not get overwhelmed by his energy.
As for the All-Star Game itself, Ohtani downplayed the idea of trying to win MVP. After hitting a home run in last year’s game without taking home the honor, he said that while he’d be happy to homer again, his goal is simply to put together a good swing and show what he can do at the plate, especially given the quality of pitching he’ll be facing.
Ohtani’s family has joined him for the festivities in Atlanta this year. He confirmed that his dog Decopin and his infant son are both with him. “They might watch from somewhere,” he said with a smile, “but we’re together. My baby isn’t walking yet though.” The All-Star break is offering him a rare chance to combine his professional and personal lives in one celebratory space.
He also reflected on a recent personal highlight—meeting Barry Bonds at a Giants game. Ohtani said Bonds has always been someone he admired, and not just him, but many of the legendary MLB hitters he grew up watching. For Ohtani, getting to play in front of icons like Bonds during an event like this makes the All-Star experience all the more meaningful.
As the Dodgers prepare for their postseason push, Ohtani emphasized that for players like him who are coming off injuries, the key is to not rush back too hard and instead focus on being fully healthy for October. He said the focus now is squarely on the team’s postseason goals and that any decisions about participating in next year’s World Baseball Classic will come after the season ends.
Looking at how he manages pressure, Ohtani said that earlier in his career he felt the weight of expectations more acutely. But after going through injuries and surgeries, he’s developed a deeper sense of gratitude. “Now, having gone through surgeries and setbacks, I’m just really grateful to be able to play,” he said. “Every time I step on the field or come off it in one piece, I feel thankful more than anything.” That sense of appreciation, he said, has only grown as he’s gotten older.
Ohtani also opened up about how fatherhood has changed his day-to-day life. He said that he usually gives his baby a bath in the morning, and after returning home from the ballpark, he takes over parenting duties depending on the time of day. He described it as a different rhythm from what he’s used to, but one that he loves.
Discussing his offensive approach, Ohtani acknowledged that his strategy at the plate has evolved, particularly now that his power has increased. He explained that he tries to “reverse-engineer” his at-bats by focusing on launch angle and quality of contact, since balls that once might have been doubles are now clearing the fence.
Finally, Ohtani shared his thoughts on the Home Run Derby and how it might be improved. While he doesn’t make the rules, he suggested that shifting the focus toward metrics like distance—rather than swing count or time—could make the event more compelling. He left the door open for future participation, depending on his physical condition and schedule each year.
Above all, what Ohtani is looking forward to most this week is the chance to bond with his fellow players. For him, the most memorable part of the All-Star experience is getting to share a clubhouse with players he normally competes against, to talk with them, and to learn more about who they are as people.
As the second half of the season looms and the Dodgers set their sights on October, it’s clear Ohtani remains centered—on his game, his teammates, and his growing family. Whether at the plate, on the mound, or changing diapers, he’s taking it all in with humility and a sense of purpose.
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