The Los Angeles Angels’ already disappointing season took a turn for the worst last week when Shohei Ohtani lasted just 1.1 innings in his start against the Cincinnati Reds.
The two-way star underwent an MRI, which revealed a torn UCL in his right elbow that may require surgery. Ohtani has been ruled out of pitching for the remainder of the 2023 season but will continue to serve as the Angels designated hitter.
Before sustaining his injury, Angels general manager Perry Minasian revealed that Ohtani and his camp declined testing on his arm, per Jeff Fletcher of the Southern California News Group:
“He and his representation turned it down,” Minasian said. “I understand why. It was a cramp in his finger and they didn’t believe it warranted imaging.”
Minasian added that he has a great relationship with Ohtani and was understanding of his decision:
“It’s a relationship of trust,” Minasian said. “The player and I have done it for three years. I believe he’s had three pretty good seasons doing it the way we did it. Me personally, I have zero regrets. It happens. There are injuries that happen in baseball. And this is an unfortunate one. That is obviously tough for us, tough for him and tough for the game. He’s obviously great to watch on both sides.”
Ohtani’s start against the Reds was his first in two weeks as he skipped his last outing due to arm fatigue. Prior to that, the 29-year-old missed just one other start this season.
Ohtani has been largely healthy up until this point, so he certainly deserved the benefit of the doubt of choosing not to have his arm examined. And with his historic free agency approaching, Ohtani has earned the right to do what he feels is best for his future.
Former Angels starter Dan Harden attempted to get Shohei Ohtani’s autograph
Former Angels starter Dan Haren is an avid autograph collector and attempted to get Ohtani’s signature in hilarious fashion by explaining in a letter that he was the last pitcher to have a four-hit game before Ohtani.