ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Sports

Ohtani becomes 1st player to hit and pitch in MLB All-Star Game

Japanese star makes history, following compatriots in US major leagues

Shohei Ohtani, left, grounded out in his first at-bat, then took the mound for the bottom half.   © Kyodo

DENVER (Kyodo) -- Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani on Tuesday became the first player in the 88-year history of the All-Star Game to start as both a hitter and pitcher.

Ohtani, who is listed in the lineup as a designated hitter, batted leadoff for the American League and then took the mound as the starting pitcher in the game at Coors Field in Denver, adding yet another first in his young MLB career.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Discover the all new Nikkei Asia app

  • Take your reading anywhere with offline reading functions
  • Never miss a story with breaking news alerts
  • Customize your reading experience

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more