Whether he’s traded before the deadline or he leaves in the off-season, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani’s days with the Angels most certainly seemed numbered.
In line for the largest contract in baseball history, the question is where will he land?
Well, a clear-cut favorite has reportedly emerged.
His time with the Los Angeles Angels appears to be drawing to a close, but his stay in the city might not be over just yet.
According to a report from the L.A. Times, the Los Angeles Dodgers are the frontrunners in the race to secure the services of the MVP candidate.
The Dodgers’ infatuation with Shohei Ohtani spans two ownership groups, two front office regimes, and two pursuits over more than a decade. It goes back to when Ohtani went by “Otani” and two-way dominance was a fantasy.
Will the third time be the charm?https://t.co/sSnMXbm5wh
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) July 9, 2023
The Angels have been struggling to find success despite having Ohtani and Mike Trout in their ranks. Their inability to make the postseason during Ohtani’s tenure has raised questions about the team’s ability to surround him with a competitive roster.
In contrast, the Dodgers have been one of the most successful teams in recent years, clinching nine out of the last ten National League West titles and winning the World Series in 2020.
The L.A. Times spoke to various sources within the baseball community who all seemed to agree that the Dodgers were the favorites to land Ohtani.
One rival team executive, who requested anonymity due to tampering rules, even went as far as to bet a sushi dinner on the Dodgers acquiring Ohtani.
Three other executives echoed the sentiment that the Dodgers were the clear frontrunners, while several agents, also granted anonymity, supported the idea.
“I know we’ll make a huge offer,” said one current member of the Dodgers roster, indicating the team’s determination to secure Ohtani.
While the report suggests a possible end to Ohtani’s time with the Angels, it also implies that his connection to the city of Los Angeles may continue.
The Dodgers’ strong track record and championship pedigree could be enticing for Ohtani, who has expressed his frustration with the Angels lack of success.
Where do you think Ohtani should sign?
Wherever he ends up, he’s expected to receive the largest contract in baseball history.
Is he worth it?.. How large of a contract do you think he should get?