Shohei Ohtani and Robert Suarez, who faced off during a heated Dodgers-Padres series marked by multiple hit-by-pitch (HBP) incidents in June, appeared to share a lighthearted moment ahead of the All-Star Game on July 15 in Atlanta. Despite Suarez hitting Ohtani with a 100-mph pitch leading to his ejection at Dodger Stadium, the two are now teammates representing the National League, setting the stage for a notable reunion.
During the recent clash between the Dodgers and the Padres, tensions ran high as the rivalry heated up with eight HBP occurrences. One significant moment saw Suarez, the Padres’ closer, striking Ohtani on the side, which seemed poised to ignite bad blood between the competitors. However, contrary to expectations, Ohtani’s attitude toward the incident remained relaxed and even playful as the All-Star break approached.
Heading into the midseason classic, Ohtani has maintained a batting average of .276 with 32 home runs and 60 runs batted in, while Suarez boasts 28 saves, a 3.54 ERA, and 43 strikeouts. Both will aim to contribute significantly to the NL’s effort to improve its dismal record, having won only one of the last eleven All-Star Games.
Ohtani Discusses His Unique Role as a Two-Way Player
Among current players, Shohei Ohtani stands out remarkably due to his rare talent for excelling as both a pitcher and a hitter. This combination of skills has earned descriptions of his abilities as nearly “superhuman” by experts and former players. Yet, Ohtani describes his dual role as quite ordinary, rooted in lifelong experience.
“Of course, there are some hardships of being able to pitch and hit at the same time. But, I grew up doing both throughout my whole life, aside from a couple injuries that I had here and there. For me, it’s pretty normal.” —Shohei Ohtani, via translator Will Ireton
In 2025, Ohtani has started five games on the mound, posting a stellar 1.00 ERA across nine innings pitched. His longest outing recently was a three-inning scoreless start against the San Francisco Giants. The Dodgers have exercised caution in managing his pitching workload to ensure his health and continued dominance.
With the All-Star Game approaching, fans eagerly anticipate Ohtani’s ability to maintain his high level of performance both as a hitter and a pitcher during the remainder of the season. His presence and skillset offer the Dodgers and the National League a significant boost as the calendar advances into the second half of the year.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Shohei Ohtani the only 50/50?
A. Shohei Ohtani is the sole member of the 50/50 club.