Angels News: Injury Changes Shohei Ohtani Plans for All Star Game

Tough break for Ohtani...

The entire baseball world held their collective breath as they watched Angels two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani walk off the field with a trainer early in Tuesday's loss to the San Diego Padres. It was later revealed that Ohtani was dealing with a blister issue and it wasn't anything super serious.

However, this does change things for him in regards to the All-Star game next week. Ohtani was in line to start the game for the American League but now that remains in doubt. 

Ohtani said it was basically the same finger issue that affected him last time out. It wasn’t fully healed and got worse as the game went on.

Thinks he’ll be okay to continue hitting, but as of now he is not planning to pitch in the All Star game.

— Erica Weston (@EricaLWeston) July 5, 2023

Ohtani may still be able to play in the game as a hitter but in all honesty, he would be better suited to sit out entirely. This injury is something that can linger and for the Angels' sake, he should use this time to rest up and heal.

Before Ohtani was removed from the game, the Angels also lost third baseman Anthony Rendon to injury. And prior to the start of the game, it was announced that star outfielder Mike Trout would miss extended time due to a fractured left hamate.

For the first time in a while, the Angels find themselves competing for a potential playoff spot so making sure that Ohtani is healed should take priority. It would be a letdown for baseball fans for him not to play in the All-Star game but for the hope of the Angels' season, it makes more sense to sit out.

We shall see what the team and Ohtani ultimately decide but we can just be thankful that the injury wasn't more serious and that the biggest show in baseball is alright.