Shohei Ohtani of the Major League Baseball Angels started in the open game against the White Sox on the 26th as the first designated hitter, and caught the first ball in the first at bat of the first time and became the first batter home run in the open game. I hit it.
On the other hand, he avoided the starting pitcher for the White Sox game scheduled for the 26th.
Otani explained the reason, "To reach the opening in the best condition."
Otani has decided to serve as his first opening pitcher in the major leagues in the opening game to be held on the 7th of next month, and plans to pitch for the second time in the open game against the White Sox on the 26th and proceed with adjustments. was.
Before the match, Angels coach Maddon revealed that Otani would avoid pitching in the match and would only play as a batter.
He explained, "It's not because of the injury. We will shift the pitch on the 31st and adjust for the opening game. We talked with Otani himself and the pitcher coach and decided that it was the best."
Otani, who practiced at the campsite before the game, did not play catch, but in free batting he showed a big hit over the fence and made adjustments with his teammates with a smile.
Otani commented on the reason for avoiding pitching, saying, "If you simply go in the middle of the 4th, you will be tired and the opening will be difficult on a schedule. I was thinking of a plan to start the season with. "
On top of that, regarding the fact that he was appointed as the opening pitcher, he said, "I'm happy. It's an honor, so I'd like to work hard. I want to make a calculation. "