Angels' Ohtani to activated off IL

Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani could be activated off the injured list and make his 2019 debut Tuesday night in Detroit, general manager Billy Eppler said Monday. The reigning American League Rookie of the Year has been recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Ohtani has recorded more than 50 plate appearances in simulated games in Arizona. He hit 22 home runs with 61 RBIs last season, in a year when he also made 10 starts on the mound, compiling a 4-2 record with a 3.31 ERA.

The 24-year-old had surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow on Oct. 1. He is not expected to pitch this season.