MLB wrap: Shohei Ohtani is first Japanese-born player to hit for cycle

Thomas Lott

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MLB wrap: Shohei Ohtani is first Japanese-born player to hit for cycle image

Shohei Ohtani may not be pitching this year, but he is helping the Angels win.

The designated hitter is recovering from Tommy John surgery, but in a 5-3 win over the Rays he hit for the cycle to become the first Japanese-born player to accomplish the feat.

He is also the first Angels player to hit for the cycle since Mike Trout in 2013. Pretty good company to be in.

But, just for good measure, on his home run, he happened to drive in three runs, which all but put the game out of reach for the Rays early.

The Angels have had their struggles this year, but they are 34-35 and not completely out of the playoff hunt in the American League. They sit 2 1/2 games back of the Rangers for the second wild-card spot.

Studs of the Night

Nelson Cruz went 3 for 4 with a home run and three RBIs in Minnesota's 10-5 win over the Mariners.

Blue Jays rookie Cavan Biggio went 2 for 4 with two home runs in a 12-3 win over the Orioles.

Dud of the Night

Padres starter Matt Strahm gave up six earned runs in 3 1/3 innings of work in a 9-6 loss to the Rockies.

Highlight

Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson made an awesome play on a slow ground ball and Freddie Freeman's pick might have been just as good.

What's Next

Diamondbacks (37-33) at Nationals (31-37), 7:05 p.m. ET — It's Robbie Ray (5-3, 3.54 ERA) vs. Max Scherzer (4-5, 2.83). Two high strikeout guys who pitch with a lot of emotion. It should be a good one Friday.

Thomas Lott