Shohei Ohtani Scratched from All-Star Start Due to Knee Irritation

Shohei Ohtani will miss his 2026 All-Star Game pitching start due to persistent left knee irritation, though he is expected to remain available as the designated hitter. Ohtani, who recently reached 300 career home runs, emphasized that a World Series title is his priority over individual awards, signaling he will not risk his health. Despite being scratched from his pitching start, he went 1-for-4 with a leadoff solo home run in Friday's 9-3 loss to the Diamondbacks.