Angels News: Shohei Ohtani Removed From Thursday's Game After 4 Dominant Innings

Uh oh.

The Angels are in the midst of the opener of an important four-game series against the division rival Seattle Mariners.

Shohei Ohtani was on the mound on Thursday, dominating through four shutout innings. Then, he was taken out.

We have no idea why he was removed from the game after four innings and just 59 pitches, but Jose Soriano is now in the game in relief as this concerning situation unfolds.

José Soriano is coming into the game.

Shohei Ohtani is done at 4 shutout innings. No explanation yet.

Will provide an update as we get it. But this is a concerning development for the Angels. https://t.co/Cfaq7PWWG8

— Sam Blum (@SamBlum3) August 4, 2023

We'll continue to provide updates when we know more, but for now, Ohtani is out of the game as a pitcher after four shutout innings.

UPDATE:

The Angels say Shohei Ohtani was removed from the game with hand cramps.

Shohei Ohtani was removed from tonight’s game (as a pitcher) with cramping in his right hand and fingers

— Angels PR (@LAAngelsPR) August 4, 2023

However, he stayed in the game as a batter and, of course, hit his 40th home run of the season. This man is unbelievable.

THIS IS 40 🦄#GoHalos pic.twitter.com/iXYzBn4Fcs

— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) August 4, 2023