What happened to Shohei Ohtani? Angels star leaves mound early in game vs Astros

Los Angeles Angels' two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani made an abrupt exit during Friday's (July 14) game against the Houston Astros. While the game ended 7-5 in favor of the Astros, Ohtani was pulled from the mound in the middle of the sixth inning to make way for relief pitcher Jacob Webb.

Despite leaving the mound, Ohtani continued in the game as a hitter, prompting questions about why he was pulled so abruptly.

Shohei Ohtani, without a doubt, has been one of the most valuable players for the Angels and even a slight hint of injury is a cause for concern among Los Angeles fans. Having had to leave the mound last week due to a blister and once again due to a cracked fingernail, fans were left alarmed when the Japanese phenom was suddenly pulled from the mound on Friday.

Ohtani started the sixth inning with the score tied at 4-4 and walked the first batter, Corey Julks. This was followed by a mound visit from manager Phil Nevin, with the team's athletic coach and translator. After a brief discussion, the 29-year-old was taken off but continued in the game as a hitter. While there has been no update from the Angels on the situation, it looks more like a strategic decision than anything else.

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Shohei Ohtani takes the defeat as the Astros make winning start to series

While Shohei Ohtani has been continuously dragging the Los Angeles Angels to victories over the MLB season, he took a 7-5 loss against the Houston Astros in Friday's series opener. Ohtani gave away four runs from the mound and could not deliver from home plate late in the game.

There are still two games remaining in the series for the Angels to turn things around and make a comeback.

About the author

Nishant Borooah is a journalist who has been reporting on baseball at Sportskeeda since 2023 and has a degree in Media Studies and Journalism.

Nishant is currently pursuing a diploma in Sports Marketing, and his interest in baseball was piqued early on by his father, who fell in love with baseball as a student in the US. His father used to regale him with stories about America's favorite pastime and they have left an impression on him.

Currently residing in Toronto, Nishant is a Blue Jays fan. revering Ichiro Suzuki growing up, Nishant remains in awe of the Japanese legend's longevity and sheer passion for the game. Suzuki's return to the Seattle Mariners in 2018 remains one of Nishant's favorite MLB moments.

One of Nishant's strengths is that he always covers the technical side of the story, and he is also particular about historical context to ensure articles are informative and easy to follow.

Besides being a writer, Nishant is also a soccer coach who has worked with several clubs in India like Shillong Lajong FC and RoundGlass Punjab FC.

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Edited by Parag Jain