In a jaw-dropping display of endurance and versatility, Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani has etched his name into the baseball history books, breaking the record for the most hours played before the 2025 MLB All-Star Break. The achievement, highlighted during ESPN’s pregame coverage of the 95th All-Star Game on July 20, 2025, in Atlanta, prompted an ESPN commentator to exclaim, “He’s a monster!” as Ohtani’s unparalleled two-way dominance continues to captivate the baseball world. With the Dodgers’ roster stacked with talent and Ohtani leading the charge, his record-breaking performance has sparked fervent discussion about his impact on the game and his potential to claim the All-Star Game MVP honors.

Ohtani’s record, confirmed during ESPN’s broadcast, reflects the sheer volume of time he’s spent on the field as both a pitcher and a designated hitter. Unlike traditional players, Ohtani’s dual role has seen him log an extraordinary number of innings pitched and plate appearances, outpacing all others before the midsummer classic. The exact hours weren’t specified in the broadcast, but his workload—balancing a 3.24 ERA with 130 strikeouts in 18 starts and a .310 batting average with 28 home runs and 70 RBIs—underscores his superhuman contribution. Posts on X have exploded with praise, with one fan noting, “Ohtani’s playing more baseball than anyone, ever. It’s unreal.” His ability to excel as both a pitcher and hitter has redefined what’s possible in modern baseball, making him a centerpiece of the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.

During ESPN’s pregame show, analysts Jim Bowden and Julian McWilliams marveled at Ohtani’s stamina and skill. Bowden, discussing the All-Star Game lineup, highlighted Ohtani’s placement in the National League’s batting order, where Dodgers manager Dave Roberts strategically slotted him second, ahead of Ketel Marte, to maximize his impact against American League starter Paul Skenes. “Ohtani’s a game-changer,” Bowden said, noting his matchup against Skenes, whose 98-mph fastball and 2.01 FIP make him a formidable opponent. Ohtani’s recent comments to MLB Network, where he described the pressure of pitching versus the opportunity to contribute as a hitter, further emphasized his unique mindset. “As a starting pitcher, you feel the weight of the game,” Ohtani said, adding that hitting offers chances to “contribute in a significant way.” His versatility has made him a +550 favorite to win the All-Star Game MVP, per Vegas odds.

The All-Star Game, broadcast live from Truist Park, is a showcase for Ohtani’s talents alongside other Dodgers stars like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Clayton Kershaw, who earned a legends pick from Commissioner Rob Manfred. Kershaw, potentially making his final All-Star appearance, and Yamamoto, adapting to MLB’s baseballs after a stellar season in Japan, joined Ohtani in stealing the spotlight during MLB Network’s pregame segment. Ohtani’s camaraderie with his teammates was evident as he shared lighthearted moments, even joking about trading autographs with Yamamoto. His record-breaking hours played, however, were the talk of the night, with McWilliams noting, “Ohtani’s doing things we’ve never seen. He’s carrying a workload that’s rewriting the rules.”

The National League, managed by Roberts for the fourth time, is desperate to snap the American League’s dominance, having won only one of the last 11 All-Star Games since 1997. Ohtani’s presence, batting behind Ronald Acuña Jr. and ahead of Marte, gives the NL a potent offensive core. Bowden predicted a low-scoring 3-2 game, with Ohtani’s at-bats against Skenes and relievers like Jake Misarowski, who’s controversially pitching despite only five MLB appearances, being pivotal. Misarowski’s 102-mph fastball drew skepticism from Phillies’ Nick Castellanos, who called the All-Star selection “Savannah Bananas,” but Ohtani’s ability to handle high-velocity pitching could tip the scales. X posts speculated that Ohtani’s record-breaking endurance gives him an edge in high-pressure situations, with one user stating, “Shohei’s built for moments like this.”

Ohtani’s record also comes amid the Dodgers’ recent roster moves, including Max Muncy’s imminent return from a knee injury and a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Guardians. Roberts’ confidence in his team, coupled with Ohtani’s historic workload, positions the Dodgers as World Series favorites. The All-Star Game offers Ohtani a chance to cement his legacy further, with prop bets favoring him to hit a home run (+550) or even steal a base, given his 25 steals this season. McWilliams noted, “Ohtani’s not just playing more; he’s playing better than anyone. If he goes deep tonight, it’s game over.”

As the All-Star Game unfolds, Ohtani’s record-breaking hours played serve as a testament to his durability and brilliance. The ESPN commentator’s “monster” label captures the awe he inspires, from fans to analysts to teammates. Whether he’s facing Skenes’ 98-mph heat or driving a pitch into the Atlanta night, Ohtani’s performance tonight could define the game and his MVP candidacy. With the Dodgers’ faithful watching and the baseball world buzzing, Ohtani’s record is more than a statistic—it’s a statement that he’s redefining the sport, one grueling, glorious hour at a time.