Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani threw a 50-pitch bullpen session on Saturday, checking off another step in his long-awaited return to the mound. Ohtani, who had previously topped out at 35 pitches,

"#Dodgers Shohei Ohtani increased his work in his weekly bullpen session today. 50 pitches, split 25-25 in an up-down (simulated inning break). Most he has thrown in his TJ recovery. Still hasn't thrown any breaking pitches but must be close to throwing to hitters," he wrote.

Ron Washington is confident "the day will come" when the Angels will be able to end their struggles and compete for World Series titles like the Dodgers.