"Takes a lot more than just physical capabilities” - Derek Jeter heaps huge praise on Shohei Ohtani for staying focused amid distractions

LA Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani had another admirer in New York Yankees icon Derek Jeter. Ahead of the 94th MLB All-Star Game, which will be played on Tuesday at Globe Life Field, the FOX Sports analyst connected with Colin Cowherd to discuss Ohtani doing well despite being engulfed in controversies.

During the live session, Cowherd mentioned that he was surprised that, despite being embroiled in the gambling scandal involving his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani was not affected. This is when Jeter started to heap praise on the Dodgers star, as he said:

"What Ohtani has been able to do on the field, it takes a lot more than just physical capabilities. I mean, mentally, he's probably as tough as anyone to be able to do that, to be able to go out there and pitch at a Cy Young level pace and then go out and win an MVP offensively. So it's not too surprising," Jeter said.

"You know, when I played, it was simple. I addressed something once and I didn't talk about it again because I didn't want it to be a distraction. And I think that's exactly what he did. He addressed it once and it doesn't linger because he doesn't continue to speak on it. So anything he does doesn't seem like it's a surprise to me at all."

Shohei Ohtani will consider participation in future Home Run Derby contests

Many fans were expecting Ohtani to feature in this year's Home Run Derby. However, given the two-way star is recovering from an elbow surgery he underwent last September, the Dodgers star had to skip this year's Home Run Derby.

During his interview on Monday with reporters, Shohei Ohtani mentioned that he wanted to participate but after having discussions with his trainers and medical staff, he decided otherwise. However, he mentioned that once he fully recovers and becomes a two-way star again, he will participate in future Home Run Derby events.

While the fans might miss him at the Home Run Derby, they will get to see Shohei Ohtani in Tuesday's MLB All-Star Game, playing as a designated hitter and representing the National League for the first time.