LA Angels: Shohei Ohtani’s versatility cannot go unnoticed

Shohei Ohtani‘s dominant seven inning outing where he struck out 10 and walked just one batter was incredible for the LA Angels.

It wasn’t the most important part of the night for me, though.

Ohtani’s choice to stay in the game after he left the mound needs to be celebrated.

His efforts are being talked about, but not talked about enough.

Ohtani is now the first starting pitcher to bat for himself in three separate games where a designated hitter was available.

Not only that, but it goes to show how selfless of a player he is.

“It was a close game,” said Ohtani. “I figured with my spot in the batting order coming up in the ninth inning, if I could make a difference with the bat, I was all for it.”

Ohtani’s not just a guy; he’s a dude. Imagine being in that clubhouse and seeing a guy literally go to bat for you. He worked his tail off on the mound with no run support from his teammates, but refused to give up on his guys.

Ohtani is the first player to start on the bump and then make the move to right field since Cesar Tovar did it in 1968.

This is his second time playing the field in his career.

Keeping his bat in the lineup was an interesting idea from Angels Manager Joe Maddon. Ohtani was one of just two Angels that had recorded a hit last night.

He’s played very well this year, with an ERA of 2.10 on the mound, and 10 home runs as an offensive player.

There are five-tool players in this league. There are special talents.

As Angels fans, we’re lucky to be able to watch Mike Trout play baseball every day, but we’re also incredibly lucky to see a freak talent in Ohtani doing everything he can to contribute to our squad.

This type of effort and performance can’t go unnoticed.