Shohei Ohtani’s transition to the Los Angeles Dodgers was a significant moment in MLB, and while he donned the Dodgers jersey and expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter, his agent shed light on the Angels’ role in his departure.
Nez Balelo, Ohtani’s agent, revealed that the Los Angeles Angels had ample opportunities to retain the Japanese superstar but ultimately failed to take decisive action when it mattered most. Despite the prevailing belief that the Toronto Blue Jays were the front-runners in the Ohtani sweepstakes, Balelo insisted that the Angels were still in the running.
“In the end, it just wasn’t going to work.” Nez Balelo on Ohtani going to the #Angels. Said they were in contact and discussions until the end and they had “every opportunity.”
— Michael J. Duarte (@michaeljduarte) December 14, 2023
Balelo summarized the Angels’ inability to keep Ohtani, stating, “In the end, it just wasn’t going to work.”
He disclosed that discussions between the Angels and Ohtani persisted until the final decision. Ohtani’s historic 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers involves deferring 97 percent of his payments, resulting in an annual salary of just $2 million.
During his introductory press conference with the Dodgers, Ohtani expressed his gratitude to the organization, particularly as he continues his recovery from Tommy John surgery, which will keep him off the pitcher’s mound for the 2024 season. Despite this setback, Ohtani is poised to make a significant impact as a hitter, coming off a remarkable season where he posted a slash line of .304/.412/.654, belted 44 home runs, drove in 95 runs, and stole 20 bases in 26 attempts.