Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani had a short and disappointing outing on Wednesday, as he left the game against the Cincinnati Reds in the second inning with arm fatigue.
Ohtani, who was making his first pitching start in two weeks, threw only 26 pitches and faced six batters. He showed reduced velocity and looked uncomfortable on the mound. He was pulled after a conversation with the team trainer and his translator.
The Angels announced that Ohtani was dealing with arm fatigue, but not pain. Manager Joe Maddon said he was not concerned about Ohtani’s health and hoped he would be able to pitch again soon.
“It’s just something that happens to pitchers,” Maddon said. “He’s had a long year. He’s had a very busy year, more so than normal because of what he’s doing.”
Ohtani has been a sensation this season, leading the majors with 44 home runs and posting a 3.00 ERA in 21 starts as a pitcher. He is the frontrunner for the American League MVP award and has drawn comparisons to Babe Ruth for his two-way prowess.
However, he has also dealt with some physical issues, such as finger cramping and blister problems, that have affected his pitching performance. He had his previous start skipped due to arm fatigue and has not pitched more than six innings since July 26.
Ohtani did not seem to have any trouble hitting on Wednesday, as he launched a two-run homer in the first inning to give the Angels a 2-0 lead. It was his fifth homer in his last six games and his 10th in August.
He did not take his next at-bat in the third inning, as he was replaced by pinch hitter Nolan Schanuel. The Angels went on to lose the game 5-4 and fell to 64-64 on the season.
Ohtani said he felt fine after the game and did not think his arm fatigue was serious. He said he would rest and prepare for his next appearance, whether as a hitter or a pitcher.
“I don’t think it’s anything to worry about,” Ohtani said through his interpreter. “I’m just going to take it day by day and see how I feel.”
