The Dodgers made it clear heading into the new season that they would take their time with Ohtani and build him up appropriately, because when it comes to a player like the two-way unicorn, they are ensuring his long-term health and long-term production, rather than a few great stints.

Ohtani pitched 4 1/3 innings of five-hit, four-run ball against the Angels. He gave up up a homer to Taylor Ward and a two-run double to Zach Neto, but he also fanned Mike Trout twice, getting his friend and fellow MVP the second time with his fastest pitch of the night — a 101 mph fastball in the fourth.