79
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani slides safely past Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Devon Travis after hitting a double during the ninth inning of a baseball game in Toronto today.
TORONTO >> The Los Angeles Angels are pushing back Shohei Ohtani’s next outing as a starting pitcher to manage the workload of the two-way rookie, meaning he’ll miss a much-anticipated showdown at Yankee Stadium against Masahiro Tanaka.
Angels manager Mike Scioscia made the announcement before today’s 8-1 win over the Blue Jays.
Ohtani is 4-1 with a 3.35 ERA in seven starts. The 23-year-old had been scheduled to pitch against his Japanese countryman on Sunday — Scioscia said Ohtani will be available to hit against Tanaka.
Ohtani said he didn’t mind missing out on the chance to pitch against Tanaka.
“Not so disappointed because I have a pretty good chance of facing him as a hitter,” Ohtani said through a translator after the Angels’ 8-1 win. “Either way, I’ll get to face him.”
The Angels haven’t set a date for Ohtani’s next outing.
Ohtani last pitched May 20 against Tampa Bay, winning his second straight decision and giving up two runs and six hits in a season-high 7 2/3 innings. The right-hander threw a season-high 110 pitches.
Ohtani played catch on the field before starting at designated hitter on Thursday. He hit two doubles, walked twice and scored two runs.
“The body feels fine,” Ohtani said through a translator after the game. “I’m guessing it’s probably because I threw 110 pitches and they’re trying to take it easy on me. I’m just going to do what I always do, do my bullpens and get ready for my next start.”
Ohtani is batting .319 with six home runs, seven doubles and 19 RBIs in 94 at-bats during his first season in the majors.
By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.
Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.