What happened: Murakami confirmed he will compete in the Home Run Derby after a Shohei Ohtani injury cost the two-way star his All-Star Game appearance. The move fills the derby slot Ohtani's absence created.

Why it matters: Ohtani had already been ruled out of pitching at the All-Star Game before this development; his exit from the derby field now hands Murakami a national showcase spot. Murakami was already named among the All-Star injury replacements this week.

What to watch: Murakami will take the field for the Home Run Derby at this year's All-Star Game; further lineup confirmations are expected as MLB finalizes the event field.