Shohei Ohtani Exits Due to Blister on Throwing Hand; Expected to Make Next Start

Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani exited early from Tuesday's game against the Boston Red Sox, leaving after just two innings.

The team announced he developed a blister on his hand during the game.

Angels manager Mike Scioscia said he expects Ohtani to make his next start, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Scioscia also said Ohtani will be the designated hitter Thursday against the Red Sox.

The rookie had struggled before he was pulled, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks, including a leadoff home run to Mookie Betts.

Injuries are never good, but Los Angeles would feel the impact twice if Ohtani were sidelined. Not only would the Angels miss the 23-year-old's presence in the rotation, they would also miss his bat.

Even after his struggles Tuesday, he has a 3.60 ERA and 0.80 WHIP plus 19 strikeouts to just four walks in 15 innings as a pitcher. He is batting .367/.424/.767 with three home runs and 11 RBI.

Mike Trout, Albert Pujols, Justin Upton and Zack Cozart have the bats to keep the offense going without Ohtani, but the unit ranks first in batting average and runs scored in part thanks to the phenom.

The rotation might feel an absence by Ohtani more, as it would have to make do without his stuff every sixth day. Angels starting pitchers rank 16th with a 4.08 ERA even with the Japanese star. And JC Ramirez and Matt Shoemaker are already on the disabled list.

Ohtani's versatile skill set made him the offseason's most coveted player. Now, the Angels will hope they don't have to find ways to make up for his absence.