In July, Shohei Ohtani is leading the race for the AL MVP, but there are ongoing MLB trade rumors surrounding his future with the Angels.
While the team is currently committed to keeping him, it has been suggested that meeting their asking price could change that.
Ohtani, who will become a free agent in 2024, is expected to leave the Angels in the upcoming winter.
Although efforts will be made to retain him, it is widely anticipated that he will sign with another team. Ohtani’s hitting statistics are impressive, with a .306/.397/.678 slash line, 35 home runs, 76 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases.
However, concerns about the supporting cast around him, compounded by Mike Trout’s injury, have fueled speculation that he may be traded.
While the Angels remain opposed to this possibility, there is reportedly a chance that it could happen by August 1.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Angels are open to entertaining trade offers for Ohtani this summer, and the asking price is expected to be similar to what the San Diego Padres paid for Juan Soto last year.
Post by @jonmorosiView on Threads
Soto, a highly sought-after player, was part of a trade that included several promising prospects.
Ohtani’s pitching stats include a 3.50 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and 139 strikeouts in 105.1 innings pitched.
He is widely regarded as the most valuable player in baseball and has the potential to make a significant impact both on and off the field if he is traded. However, Ohtani’s expiring contract is viewed as a significant disadvantage in terms of trade value.
It is unlikely that any team will be willing to offer a package similar to the one the Nationals received for Soto.
As a result, the Angels may need to either lower their asking price or keep Ohtani for the rest of the season and then lose him in free agency.
For all the latest breaking in sports entertainment news, be sure to follow TMSPN.com on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
