Ohtani will continue to play as pitcher after injury, says agent

Shohei Ohtani is fully determined to continue playing as pitcher and hitter after he recovers from elbow injury, his agent said.

The Angels are still contemplating on how to deal best with the situation as they weigh up the options between Tommy John surgery or a nonsurgical remedy.

“There’s not a question in his mind that he’s going to come back and he’s going to continue to do both, like we have the last few years,” his agent said.

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However, the 29-year-old acknowledges the fact if he were to undergo surgery, it would take a little while before he returns as Los Angeles designated hitter. Hitters who have Tommy John surgery typically require six to eight months of rehabilitation before they can hit again.

“I do know this: No matter what timetable we’re dealing with and when we get this done, Shohei is going to be in somebody’s lineup next year DHing when the bell rings,” the agent said. “We know that.”