The Los Angeles Angels remain in the mix for Shohei Ohtani and where he could sign in the offseason, with a particularly important list of decisions that’ll follow once he decides.
Having leaned on his stardom, both on and off the field, the Angels saw his rise from intriguing piece, to a presumed two-time MVP candidate. Owner Arte Moreno understands the value of big name players on large contracts, and more times than not, those have returned negative value.
Still having Mike Trout, the Angels have a chance to be competitive, but some major things have to change within the organization for long term stability. Ohtani is that pillar, but his price tag that projects to be north of $450 million would put them in a tough spot with a roster and farm system in need of some help.
The Angels will have a bid, of course, but there’s a bevy of teams who are vying for his services aside from the top clubs, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today:
If Ohtani does not sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers or Angels, some executives predict that he’ll end up signing with either the Chicago Cubs or Texas Rangers, while the San Francisco Giants will offer the most money.
The Dodgers offer the most for Ohtani, and pure cash flow isn’t the biggest key. A winning culture, consistent compete in the front office, and a place to put his talent on the biggest stage.
But those checkmarks could be had with the Rangers, Cubs and Dodgers. Ohtani could have that effect on many teams besides just the top clubs, because he is such a unicorn, he is the pillar to build a roster around.
Shohei Ohtani wins second career Silver Slugger
Another historic season for the two-way star culminated in his second career Silver Slugger Award, recognizing him as one of the best hitters across MLB.
Voted on by MLB managers and coaches, Silver Slugger Awards are given out to each position, Ohtani led the AL in home runs (44), wRC+ (180), on-base percentage (.412), slugging percentage (.654), and posted a walk-rate of 15.2%, which also led the league.
His 60.6 offensive value led all qualified hitters by a large margin, Yandy Díaz came in second with a 39.1 value.
His ability to both unitize a disciplined approach leading to immense power production has separated himself from the rest of baseball. Ohtani’s 2023 season was a force within an underwhelming Angels lineup that was a middle of the pack unit.
Ohtani led the AL in total bases with 325, while also posting a Major League leading 184 OPS+.
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