Shohei Ohtani threw the fastest pitch of his career at 101.7 mph and worked two efficient innings in his third mound start for the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing one hit and one walk against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.
It was the first start of more than one inning this season for the two-way superstar, who is working as an opener as he eases his way back into pitching.
The three-time MVP did not pitch last season, his first with the Dodgers, while recovering from Tommy John surgery. He made 86 mound starts over five seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, going 38-19 with a 3.01 ERA.
On Saturday, Ohtani threw first-pitch strikes to all seven batters he faced and finished with 27 pitches, 20 for strikes.
He allowed a one-out single to Bobby Witt Jr. in the first and walked Maikel Garcia before throwing the 101.7 mph fastball on an 0-2 count to Vinnie Pasquantino, who grounded into a double play.
Ohtani retired the side in order in the second, fanning rookie Jac Caglianone on an 89 mph slider.
However, his day at the plate was less than stellar as he went 0-for-4 as the 9-5 loss. He struck out three times.
The 30-year-old has 29 homers this season as Los Angeles’ primary designated hitter.
Reporting by The Associated Press.
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