LEADING OFF: Ohtani hits MLB-high 35th HR, now faces Rockies

A look at what's happening around the majors on Monday:

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A SHO NO-NO?

Shohei Ohtani has done it all this season, from leading the majors in home runs to throwing 100 mph heat while starting the All-Star Game.

So after there were no-hit near misses at Fenway Park, Target Field and Minute Maid Park over the weekend, will the Angels two-way sensation be the next pitcher to give it a go?

Ohtani (4-1, 3.21 ERA) will be starting with an extra day of rest when Los Angeles hosts Colorado. Fellow All-Star Germán Márquez (8-7, 3.50) is set to pitch for the Rockies.

Ohtani hit his 35th home run Sunday in a win at Minnesota. He’s coming off a sharp start in which he pitched six shutout innings of three-hit ball, striking out eight at Oakland.

There have been seven no-hitters in the majors this year, one short of the MLB record set in 1884, the first season overhand pitching was permitted.

MINUS MOOKIE

The Dodgers will be without All-Star right fielder Mookie Betts for at least a few more days.

Betts was put on the 10-day injured list Sunday with right hip inflammation, with the move retroactive to Thursday. He last started on July 17 at Colorado and last appeared in a game Monday when he pinch-hit against San Francisco.

The Dodgers had been avoiding an IL move for Betts, initially projecting him to return on Tuesday for the start of a three-game series at San Francisco.

Betts is batting .270 with an .876 OPS and 14 home runs and 40 RBIs.

PITCHING IN

The NL East-leading Mets and Braves could stretch their pitching staffs this week as they play a doubleheader to begin a five-game series at Citi Field.

Marcus Stroman (7-8, 2.59 ERA) is scheduled to start the opener for the Mets, who lead the Phillies by four games and the Braves...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/LEADING-OFF-Ohtani-hits-MLB-high-35th-HR-now-16338910.php