Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani ups home run total to 30 with two dingers vs. Orioles

He joined Hideki Matsui .

“I think as players we’re all like just pieces of the puzzle, and it’s all up to the manager, how he’s going to decide to use me.

Ohtani was chosen as the AL’s player of the month for June on Friday, marking the first time he received the monthly honor.

His two long balls Friday not only gave him the Angels’ record for most home runs before the All-Star break, but they also broke Babe Ruth’s mark for most in a season with 10 or more games pitched.

“It’s just such an easy swing, but it’s violent,” said teammate Mike Trout, who was also voted an All-Star Game starter despite being injured.

“Just the whole atmosphere and being there with all the guys, it’s one of the coolest things you’re going to do.

Talks between the All-Star manager and teams are common, especially when it comes to the pitching staff and whether anyone is throwing the weekend before the game.

Before the All-Star Game, Ohtani has more pressing matters — such as trying to bounce back from a tough outing in his last pitching start.

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