Shohei Ohtani taking BP for first time since Tommy John surgery

Shohei Ohtani had a rough go if it during 2018 spring training

While recovery from Tommy John surgery is keeping Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani from playing on Opening Day, he is taking a big step forward.

Citing manager Brad Ausmus, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reported on Thursday that Ohtani is taking live batting practice for the first time since his surgery.

Shohei Ohtani is taking batting practice on the field for the first time since Tommy John surgery today, Brad Ausmus said. He’s back in Anaheim rehabbing.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) March 28, 2019

Ardaya added that Ohtani is “still on track for a May return.”

While Ohtani is throwing on the side, Ohtani will not pitch again until 2020 as he recovers from his surgery. But getting his bat in the lineup will be a great boost to the Angels.

In 2018, he hit .285/.361/.564 with 22 home runs in only 326 at-bats.