Teoscar Hernandez of the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed in the MLB Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, thanks in part to advice from his esteemed teammate, Shohei Ohtani. As Hernandez recounted, Ohtani, the two-time American League MVP and a frontrunner for the 2024 National League MVP, advised him to aim his hits towards left-center field rather than pulling them. Ohtani explained that given Hernandez’s swing, this strategy would increase his chances of success. Hernandez heeded this advice, and it proved to be a game-changer.
In the competition, Hernandez hit all but one of his 49 home runs to either left field or left-center. His consistent and powerful performance included a 466-foot home run in the first round, the second-longest of the Derby. Ohtani’s counsel was instrumental in this feat, illustrating the impact of his strategic insight.
Ohtani’s influence extends beyond his own stellar performance; his guidance highlights his understanding of the game’s nuances, which he generously shares with his teammates. Ohtani, often described as one of the best baseball players globally, continues to impress with his dual-threat capabilities as both a hitter and a pitcher. Despite recovering from elbow surgery that prevents him from pitching in 2024, his batting remains exceptional, leading the National League in several key statistics, including home runs, runs scored, OPS, and total bases.
In a related note, Juan Soto, another major baseball star, expressed his admiration for Ohtani and his desire to play alongside him. Soto, who has had a prolific career with achievements like a World Series win, a Home Run Derby title, and multiple All-Star appearances, has yet to share a team with Ohtani. Speaking at the 2024 All-Star Game media event, Soto mentioned Ohtani as a player he would love to team up with, noting the challenge now that they play in different leagues—Ohtani in the National League and Soto in the American League.
Soto’s performance has been stellar, leading the American League in walks and boasting a .295 batting average with 23 home runs in the first half of the season. His and Ohtani’s combined contributions amount to an impressive 10.4 WAR over 188 games, as per Baseball Reference, underscoring their impact on the sport.
The possibility of Soto and Ohtani playing together might seem remote but not impossible. Soto’s impending free agency opens the door to various possibilities, including the chance to join the Dodgers. The Yankees, known for their substantial financial resources, are also expected to pursue Soto vigorously. However, the Dodgers, with their significant payroll and willingness to invest in top talent, might emerge as a strong contender for Soto’s signature.
Ohtani’s long-term commitment to the Dodgers is solidified by his 10-year, $700 million contract, which includes deferred payments through 2043. This substantial deal underscores his value to the team and ensures his presence in Los Angeles for the foreseeable future. If Soto desires to play with Ohtani, the Dodgers appear to be the most viable option, barring a potential reunion at an All-Star game if Soto signs with another National League team.
In conclusion, Hernandez’s victory in the Home Run Derby is a testament to the value of expert advice and the camaraderie within the Dodgers. Ohtani’s role as both a mentor and a star player exemplifies his multifaceted contributions to the team. Meanwhile, Soto’s admiration for Ohtani highlights the mutual respect among baseball’s elite and the tantalizing prospect of them potentially joining forces in the future. This narrative underscores the interconnected nature of professional sports, where individual achievements are often bolstered by collaborative efforts and shared wisdom.
