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Whereas two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani will undoubtedly be essentially the most coveted participant on the free-agent market this offseason, there’s reportedly an opportunity he will not be going wherever.
In response to Bob Nightengale of USA Right this moment, the Los Angeles Angels are “cautiously optimistic” that Ohtani will re-sign with the franchise this winter.
Nightengale additionally named the Los Angeles Dodgers as “the favourite” to signal Ohtani if he chooses to depart the Angels. Earlier this month, an MLB government informed Jon Heyman of the New York Put up that the Boston Crimson Sox “are a real threat” to signal him as properly. Nonetheless, it seems like he is open to remaining with the franchise with whom he is spent his total MLB profession.
The Angels completed fourth within the AL West with a 73-89 file this season, marking their eighth straight shedding season and ninth straight and not using a playoff look. Ohtani possible would’ve been unavailable for a postseason run this 12 months after struggling a torn UCL in his throwing arm ultimately that prompted him to be shut down for the season in mid-September and led to surgery.
When wholesome, the 2021 AL MVP seemed to be properly on his method to including extra {hardware} to his trophy case. Ohtani performed 135 video games and hit .304/.412/.684 with 44 dwelling runs and 95 RBI whereas additionally beginning 23 video games on the mound and ending with a 10-5 file, a 3.14 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP and 167 strikeouts in 132 innings pitched.
Ohtani will not be capable to pitch through the 2024 season, however he’s nonetheless one of the vital harmful hitters within the majors. The Angels will possible do every part of their energy to retain him this offseason in hopes of ending the franchise’s prolonged run of misfortune.
