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Ohtani has MRI after feeling discomfort in arm during start

Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Los Angeles Angels sent two-way player Shohei Ohtani for an MRI after he experienced discomfort in his pitching arm during Sunday's abbreviated start, according to Alden Gonzalez of ESPN.

Results of the MRI aren't yet known.

Ohtani's second start on the mound in 2020 began better than the first, but things quickly unraveled.

The right-hander was pulled in the second inning of Sunday's game against the Houston Astros. Though he didn't allow a hit, Ohtani issued five walks in the frame and allowed a pair of runs before manager Joe Maddon made the call to the bullpen.

After loading the bases with none out, Ohtani very nearly danced out of trouble when he struck out Kyle Tucker and Jack Mayfield. He then walked Dustin Garneau on what looked like a missed call.

It was a disappointing outing for the two-way player working his way back from Tommy John surgery, especially after he managed to retire the side on eight pitches in the first inning.

Ohtani saw improved velocity on his fastball - topping out at 97.1 mph - but it dipped below 90 just before he was removed after throwing 42 pitches in the second inning.

He fared worse in his first start when he allowed five runs on three hits and three walks without recording an out. He owns a 37.80 ERA over his two appearances.

Things have gone slightly better at the dish. While he owns a .148 batting average, Ohtani has hit a pair of home runs in 28 plate appearances.

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