Shohei Ohtani said he topped out at 97 mph while throwing live batting practice on Wednesday, an encouraging development that further supports the enthusiasm voiced by prominent members of the Los Angeles Angels throughout the offseason.
Ohtani, the two-way player from Japan who hasn't pitched regularly since the start of the 2018 season, threw against infielders Jared Walsh and Luis Rengifo from the team's spring training complex in Tempe, Arizona, and stated through an interpreter that his elbow feels "much better compared to last year." The session came 24 hours after Ohtani hit in live batting practice, which falls in line with the Angels' plan to not be so restrictive with his usage.