Los Angeles Angels all-world talent Shohei Ohtani posted another incredible statistical season during his 2023 campaign, which earned him a spot as a finalist for multiple Players Choice Awards.
Ohtani was named a finalist in two separate categories, Outstanding Player Award and Player of the Year.
The two-way star posted a .304/.412/.654 slash with a 180 wRC+ with 44 home runs, 95 RBI and 20 steals. Ohtani had the best offensive season of his six-year career, and did more damage in an even smaller sample than his prior year.
The 29-year-old led the American League in home runs, slugging percentage, wOBA, walk-rate, and fWAR(6.6).
It’s the second consecutive season in which Ohtani reached the final selections in both categories. In 2022, Ohtani came away without an award.
The Players Choice Awards have been around since 1992, and recipients are recognized due to their on- and off-field performances. Voting for all awards was conducted late in the season, with in-person clubhouse voting doing by players on all 30 teams.
Ohtani is named alongside Ronald Acuña Jr. and Mookie Betts for Player of the Year, with the winner to be distinguishly honored on Thursday, Nov. 2 during the 6 p.m. edition of SportsCenter on ESPN.
Angels remain hopeful to re-sign Shohei Ohtani
Ohtani is set to become the most coveted free agency in MLB history next month and has given no indication of what his plans are. Mike Trout hasn’t received any hints from his teammate either, but recently said he will try to convince him to stay with the Angels.
Prior to his elbow injury, Ohtani was projected to sign a contract that could potentially exceed $500 million in total value. Even if he doesn’t reach that amount, he will still draw interest from many teams around the league.
The Angels’ biggest competition for Ohtani figures to be the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres as the presumed 2023 American League MVP Award winner is believed to want to remain in Southern California.
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