While they are not expected to be a serious contender in the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes, it seems the Los Angeles Angels are feeling pretty good about their top star returning next season.
MLB is in the midst of the 2023 playoffs, however, the other 26 teams in the league that are no longer playing games are looking ahead at ways to improve the roster this winter. When it comes to the players that will be available on the free agent market next month, there is no bigger prize than two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.
Related: MLB insider provides insight on what Shohei Ohtani wants in free agency, type of contract
Despite the revelation that he has a tear in his UCL joint and will require a second Tommy John surgery, the MVP candidate is still expected to land a record-breaking deal in the next few months. Although every team in the league would love to have his services, there are only a select few with the financial wherewithal or winning environment that could lure Ohtani to their city.
Over the last few weeks, the consensus seems to be that the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, San Francisco Giants, and New York Yankees are seen as the top contenders for Ohtani. However, for the most part, his current team, the Los Angeles Angels, has been ruled out.
Los Angeles Angels ‘optimistic’ about re-signing Shohei Ohtani?
The belief is that after six straight losing seasons with the franchise, no amount of money will make him endure more frustration in LA. However, it does not seem to be the opinion of the Angels as they head into a hugely important offseason.
On Sunday, USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale offered a surprising update about the race for Shohei Ohtani and his former team.
“While the Dodgers still are the favorite to sign free agent Shohei Ohtani, the Angels are cautiously optimistic that Ohtani will stay with them,” Nightengale wrote.
Just on a pure revenue level, the Angels need to re-sign the Japanese superstar. Especially with team legend Mike Trout only getting older and more injury-prone. Owner Arte Moreno has shown many times in the past he is willing to shell out big money for free agents, and there is no bigger and more important player to the franchise than Ohtani.