TEMPE, Ariz. — Two-way star Shohei OhtaniA solid spring training debut, Monday’s mound appearance saw him strike out five batters and give up one run in 2 1/3 innings. Los Angeles Angels.
The American League MVP of the year was sharp in his first pitch. He got a called strike on his second pitch to Kansas City. Kyle IsbelThe strikeout was earned by delivering a high fastball to the left fielder, three pitches later.
The right-hander retired seven out of 11 batters he faced. Edward OlivaresJaCoby was hit by a pitch and Isbel struck out with a single. Royals scored their third run in the third when Isbel’s sinking line drive escaped a diving umpire. Brandon MarshFor a triple. Olivares drove Ohtani in with a RBI single up the middle. This ended Ohtani’s day.
Ohtani threw 50 pitches including 33 strikes. He was expected to throw 45 pitches.
Ohtani, 27, is trying to replicate one of the most unique and productive seasons in MLB history. The 6-foot-4, 220-pounder was a great pitcher and hitter. He earned unanimous MVP honors.
Because Ohtani has the unique position of being the best in baseball, we will closely monitor his spring progress due to the lockout.
After three years of caution and injuries, Ohtani was finally released by the Angels last season. He can now be a full-time hitter as well as a pitcher without restrictions. It was a stunning production: Ohtani was one of the most respected power hitters in baseball with 46 homers, 26 runs, eight triples, and 26 doubles. He also stole 26 bases.
He was also a great hitter, with a record of 9-2 and 3.18 ERA in 23 innings, striking out 156 batters over 130 1/3 innings.
Despite Ohtani’s incredible individual season, the Angels were unable to make it to the playoffs for 2021. The team ended with a disappointing record of 77-85.