ARLINGTON, Texas — Shohei Ohtani is ready for more.

Ohtani has pitched twice and been the designated hitter five times in the Angels’ first 13 games. After Wednesday’s game, Ohtani said he understands the team’s caution with him, but he’s hoping to push the envelope.

“I talk to the medical staff every day and they see how I’m doing, my strength level, to see if I can play that day,” Ohtani said through his interpreter. “It’s the beginning of the season so I think they are being pretty careful with me right now.

“Once the season gets tougher and the schedule gets tougher throughout the summer, hopefully I can make them want to play me more. I would like to play more. If not, that’s what it is. I have to follow what they have to say.”

Manager Mike Scioscia has repeatedly said the Angels will err on the side of caution when it comes to using the 23-year-old rookie. So far, the only strict rules have been that Ohtani won’t start at DH on the days immediately before or after he pitches, which is how he was mostly used in Japan.

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Angels’ Justin Upton looks to carry hot finish into next season There have been two games when Ohtani has been available to hit, but did not start, both when the opponents started left-handed pitchers. Scioscia said the Angels aren’t platooning Ohtani. He started against a lefty on Wednesday night. He went 1 for 2 against lefty starter Matt Moore and walked against lefty reliever Jake Diekman.

The Kansas City Royals are starting right-handers in the first three games this weekend. Ohtani is expected to be in the lineup on Thursday and Friday.

As for his pitching schedule, Ohtani’s third start of the season is scheduled for Sunday, which will be on six days rest. He has pitched on at least six days rest every time since his second outing of the spring, which was on five days rest.

Scioscia has said that is more flexible, and Ohtani may at some point start on five days rest.