Shohei Ohtani to take batting practice with Angels for first time
Shohei Ohtani is getting closer and closer to a return for the Los Angeles Angels.
Ohtani has been cleared to participate in batting practice and will join his team on the field Friday, marking his first time doing so all season.
Shohei Ohtani will hit with his teammates on the field for the first time tomorrow during regular batting practice. He's in Group 3
— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) April 19, 2019
Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery at the beginning of October and is out for the season as a pitcher. However, he will still be able to serve as a DH for the Angels this season while he continues to work towards a 2020 return as a pitcher.
Ohtani batted .285 with 21 doubles, 22 homers and a .925 OPS as a rookie last season. He would likely take at-bats away from Albert Pujols at DH once he gets cleared, which could happen next month.
