AP Photo/Ashley LandisShohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels' star pitcher, will be able to pitch and hit in the 2021 MLB All-Star Game.The 27-year old became the first pitcher and position player to be elected into the Midsummer Classic. Joe Maddon, Angels manager, confirmed that Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays manager will use him in both of these roles.Maddon stated that although it is obvious that he will pitch, the details of how it will happen are still unknown. There are many ways to accomplish this, evidently. He could either start the game or enter game-in-progress. How often can you hit him? Don't forget that he will be competing in the Home Run Derby on the previous day. There is a lot happening there. Shohei loves it. We're not trying to force him to do anything. We are just trying to find the best way to do it."However, the Angels skipper mentioned that it might not be easy to make this a reality.Ohtani was elected designated hitter for the American League's first lineup. This presents an easy scenario where he is also the starting pitcher. Things get more complicated if Cash takes him out of his bullpen.The problem with this unusual situation is that MLB doesn’t have any rules to deal with it. The league has never faced an instance in which an offensive player could leave the All-Star Game, then re-enter as pitcher.In 2002, when both leagues ran out pitchers, MLB adhered to the rules and ended the All-Star Game tied.It wouldn't hurt to let Ohtani make a quick exit, warm up in bullpen, and then take the mound.Since MLB dropped the requirement that the All-Star Game be an exhibition, the game has been reintroduced as a pure competition. This is unlikely to be an issue in future All-Star Games, since Ohtani is an anomaly.Fans will want to see the Japanese slugger pitching and hitting and will be disappointed if that doesn't happen.
