Angels fans, your ​AL Rookie of the Year is heading to a batter's box near you.


The Halos' dual-threat phenom isn't going to be pitching for the Angels in 2019, but the left-handed hitter who knocked 22 home runs out of the park in 2018 is key to LA's ability to put runs on the scoreboard and give fans a reason to stand up and cheer between Mike Trout at-bats.


Indeed, it''s a very encouraging sign to see that Ohtani is set to take his first batting practice of the year on Friday as he recovers from Tommy John surgery. 

It's ShoTime once again.


​​The Angels could use Ohtani's help, too. The team currently occupies the cellar of the American League West at 8-11 on the year, and getting the Japanese star man back into the everyday lineup could be the boost the team needs to keep up with the experienced Astros and the relentless Mariners. 

After all, Trout can't do everything, can he?


With some tough series out of the way, bringing back Ohtani soon could be key as the Angels' schedule slackens a little. If Ohtani can pitch in -- while not literally pitching -- and help Los Angeles win some games, especially with weaker opponents like the Royals and the Blue Jays on the schedule in the coming weeks, the race for the AL West will get a whole lot more interesting.