Japanese two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani will make his spring training debut as a pitcher on Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Los Angeles Angels announced Thursday.

The 23-year-old began his official training at the Angels' spring camp on Feb. 14. He needed an invitation to attend the major-league camp as he joined the team on a minor-league contract.

In December, Ohtani signed with the Angels after being posted by the Nippon Ham Fighters of Japan's Pacific League. He has both pitched and played a key role in the Fighters' lineup for five seasons.

Despite being a former MVP in Japanese pro baseball, Ohtani is considered an amateur according to the rules governing international signings as agreed to by Major League Baseball and its union.