Shohei Ohtani said he does not see a need for additional simulated games before his return to the mound for the Los Angeles Angels after throwing 50 pitches Monday.It marked Ohtani’s second simulated game as the Angels have taken a cautious approach with the Japanese star’s return from a sprained ligament in his throwing elbow. He has also had multiple short throwing sessions on the side.”Personally, I feel like I don’t need any more simulated games, but that’s not up to me, ultimately,” Ohtani said through his interpreter, via MLB.com. “It’s going to be up to the coaching staff and the training staff, so I have to talk to them first.”Angels manager Mike Scioscia has said the plan is for Ohtani to throw a bullpen session later this week before the next step in his return to the mound this year is made. Ohtani has not pitched in a game since June 6.”I was always confident that I would be able to pitch some time during the season,” Ohtani said. “Every step, I’m getting closer and closer, so I’m feeling more confident.”Ohtani, 24, has 15 homers and 43 RBIs principally as a designated hitter in his rookie season. He has also gone 4-1 with 61 strikeouts and a 3.10 ERA in nine starts for the Angels.
