Shohei Ohtani is all set to be the Opening Day starter for the Los Angeles Angels. The two-way phenom, who is also the reigning MVP, will be the starting pitcher for the Angels in the first league game of the 2022 season of Major League Baseball.

Notably, in baseball, Ohtani is probably the biggest star of the game. Be it pitching or hitting, he rarely makes any mistake while playing for the Angels. Now, just a few days ahead of the opening day of the 2022 season, LA Angels manager Joe Maddon has named him as the starting pitcher for the first game of the season.

Given that Ohtani was exceptional with both the bat and ball in the 2021 season, this was expected from the Angels’ management.

Shohei Ohtani named Opening Day starter for the Los Angeles Angels

A total of nine games will be played on the Opening Day of the 2022 season. And LA Angels will be playing against the Houston Astros in their first league game. Earlier on Friday, the Angels manager informed that Ohtani will be pitching first against the Astros, while he will also bat first as a designated hitter. 

As per MLB.com, Maddon said that it just felt right to play Ohtani as a starter. He also confirmed that Ohtani is excited to play as the starter. And he’s earned his right to play as a starter.

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“I spoke to him, and he’s very excited about it,” Joe Maddon said. “Typically, he handles things with very limited emotion. Of course, he’s happy about it. He’s earned the right to do that.”

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Recently, MLB and MLBPA agreed on Ohtani to bat first, even if he is a pitcher. During the 2021 season, Ohtani was excellent with both the bat and ball. The two-way phenom hit 46 home runs while he also struck out 156 batters and stole 26 bases for his team. His consistent performance throughout the season earned him the AL MVP Award unanimously.

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Only time will tell, how good Ohtani will be in the 2022 season. Do you think Ohtani will be able to retain his AL MVP Award in 2022?