The Los Angeles Angels have nearly no playoff hopes as the MLB Trade Deadline approaches on Aug. 2, so the team will likely be looking toward the future in any move they make.
While trading Shohei Ohtani is something the Angels would prefer not to do, it may be the right thing to do. Especially if he is unwilling to sign an extension with the team and wants to head to a winning club.
Multiple teams have already checked in on his availability and while the Angels have said they wouldn’t move the superstar two-way player, they have been listening to what teams are offering, according to Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of the New York Post:
Teams have been calling regarding potential deals for the two-way phenom, and while a trade involving the unique superstar is seen as very unlikely, the Angels are not hanging up the phone.
The Angels are telling teams they need to listen to offers for everyone following the surprise collapse of their team off a very strong start that had them in first place in May.
If the Angels are listening to offers, it’s likely just due diligence to get an idea of what the market is for players and seeing if any other team is willing to offer something the Angels wouldn’t be able to pass up.
The chances of a deal are still minimal, and the impact it would make on the Angels’ business operations are an important factor:
Two executives with interest rated it this way: “Very slim,” and “almost zero.”
A third said: “They want something like your top four prospects.”
However, trading Ohtani would bring back a haul of prospects with the potential to get them back on the winning track. But they should only be willing to deal him if Ohtani is against signing an extension in Anaheim.
It’s a tough decision for the Angels to make and a spot they rather not be in, but getting a haul of prospects now would be far better than having him walk in free agency after the 2023 season.
Arte Moreno doesn’t want to be vilified with Ohtani decision
Angels owner Arte Moreno has expressed his desire to retain the reigning MVP even though the writing may be on the wall considering Ohtani’s comments in the past.