What does Shohei Ohtani feel about all the hoopla?
As the trade deadline approaches, Shohei Ohtani, a star player for the Los Angeles Angels, had a tough outing against the Pittsburgh Pirates, giving up five runs in just over six innings on Friday.
Thankfully, his team provided enough run support for him to secure the win. After the game, Ohtani was asked about the possibility of this being his final start at home for the Angels.
“That did not cross my mind at all,” Ohtani said, via ESPN. “Obviously I’m part of the Angels at this moment. I feel like we’re in a decent spot to make a playoff run, so I just try not to really think about that.”
He tried to downplay the trade rumors by stating that it didn’t cross his mind and that he is focused on their playoff run. Ohtani acknowledged that he’s trying to block out all the outside noise and stay focused on the season.
“We’re in midseason, obviously, and I’m just trying to focus on the season and sort of block everything else out. Like I said earlier, I feel like we’re in a decent spot to make a playoff run, and that’s all I’m really focused on at the moment.”
Shohei Ohtani on the possibility this was his last home mound start for the Angels: “That’s did not cross my mind at all. Obviously I’m a part of the Angels at this moment, and I feel like we’re in a decent spot to make a playoff run, so I just try not to really think about that”
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) July 22, 2023
Trading Ohtani could bring the Angels a quality group of prospects, but it would be hard to let go of such a talented player, even if it’s believed he may leave in free agency.
The MLB trade deadline for this season is on August 1st at 6 p.m. ET.
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