Ohtani withdraws from All-Star Game due to knee irritation

Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers has pulled out of the upcoming All-Star Game in Philadelphia due to ongoing irritation in his left knee. The Dodgers confirmed that he will not start against the Arizona Diamondbacks and will prioritize treatment to manage the knee issue. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts highlighted that this decision aims to ensure Ohtani's health for the postseason, stating, "If it were a postseason game, he'd be pitching." Ohtani is scheduled to have a procedure to drain his knee, but both Roberts and the team expect it will not impact his availability for the second half of the season. He will continue to serve as the designated hitter in upcoming games against Arizona.

• 12:59 AMYahoo Sports — Ohtani out for All-Star Game; Roberts: "I'm not a politician. I'm a baseball coach."