Otani Showed His Prowess in Spring Training By Blasting Balls Into The Parking Lot

Angels' Japanese star Shohira Otani, who continues to prepare for the Classic and the new season at Arizona's spring training facility, showed off his prowess in batting practice Tuesday, sparking debate among fans.

"Sports Japan" reported that Otani arrived at the spring training stadium at 10 a.m. to play a 50-meter pass, then shortened the distance and began to work on the change ball. Then run the bases, sprinting between first and second base.

In the afternoon, Ottani took batting practice outside and hit 12 of his 26 at-bats over the home run wall, including one that flew an estimated 130 meters (426 feet) to the parking lot outside. Fans left messages saying, "I hope I can hit 63 this year" and "I can't wait for the new season to start."

Before the major league season begins, Otani will play in the Classic for Japan. He will not participate in the Japanese team's training camp, but will return to Japan to join the national team after the first game of spring training.