The Los Angeles Angels have changed their stance on their two-hitting slugger Shohei Ohtani (29). The Los Angeles Angels, who have made it clear that they will not trade him, have a different attitude.
Ohtani has been dominant at the plate this season. He’ll be eligible for free agency at the end of the season and is expected to command a jackpot of more than $500 million. Given his skill set and ticket power, he could be a ransom note. Despite the astronomical price tag, the Los Angeles Dodgers and other teams are expected to be in the mix after the season ends.
The Angels have been adamant about not trading Ohtani this season. They’ve made it clear that they want to stick with Ohtani and keep him. However, things have not been going well for the team lately. The Angels fell into a slump after losing Mike Trout to a wrist injury at the end of the first half. The Angels need to win games to win Ohtani’s heart, and it won’t be easy. There’s also no word on an extension.
Los Angeles Angels starter Shohei Ohtani. AP Yonhap스포츠토토
Suddenly, MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, raised the possibility of trading Ohtani in an interview with reporter John Morosi on Aug. 16 (KST). Morosi said, “There hasn’t been a trade yet, but I get the feeling it’s a possibility. I’m sure the Angels have discussed it internally in the organization recently. They will listen to trade requests.”
Since the news broke, fake news about the Otani trade has been circulating in the United States. Recently, local media and legends have been calling for the Yankees to trade him. The Yankees could form a one-two punch with Gerrit Cole on the mound and a duo with Aaron Judge at the plate if they acquire Ohtani.
The Angels are slipping in the American League standings and have fallen behind in the wild-card race. If they find it difficult to make the postseason, they could be swayed by an attractive trade. It will be interesting to see if the Angels utilize Ohtani to bolster their lineup, as the team has changed its tone from the first half of the season.