Shohei Ohtani did not allow an Athletics batter to reach base until the seventh inning, when he gave up a one-out single and a walk. That was it, however, as he struck out 12 batters over seven scoreless innings.

The other day I noted I had become less skeptical about Ohtani becoming a good two-way player. That skepticism continues to fall. He can pitch.

I just wish he would not pitch on days I’m visiting relatives! I did catch a first inning strikeout on my phone, and the one pitch I saw impressed me with it’s deception. The ball came in much faster than I expected based on his arm and body movement. He certainly had the Athletics fooled this afternoon.

The Angels lead the A’s 6-1 in the top of the ninth.

Update: The Angels win 6-1.