Ohtani leads MLB with 30 home runs, and has an ERA under 4.00 in 12 starts. Author: RONALD BLUM AP Baseball Writer Published: 5:31 PM CDT July 4, 2021 Updated: 5:31 PM CDT July 4, 2021 NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani achieved a first in the near century history of baseball’s All-Star Game: selection as both a position player and a pitcher. The Los Angeles Angels’ two-way sensation was among the starting pitchers picked Sunday for the American League staff for the July 13 showcase at Denver’s Coors Field. Ohtani, who leads the majors in home runs, had already been elected by fans to start for the AL at designated hitter.