Over the last two MLB seasons, the Los Angeles Angels’ Shohei Ohtani has played some great baseball. Following a historic 2021 season, Ohtani won the American League MVP award. During the 2022 season, Ohtani improved his pitching numbers dramatically while maintaining his batting output.

Shohei Ohtani’s improved play in 2022 earned him a nomination for the American League MVP award. But this time he fell short with Aaron Judge taking home MVP and Ohtani finishing runner-up in the voting. During the season, Ohtani earned comparisons to MLB legend Babe Ruth. And after losing the MVP battle, Ohtani finally reacted to these comparisons.

How did Ohtani react to comparisons with legend Babe Ruth?

In an interview with the MLB Network, Ohtani answered questions through his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. One such question was whether Ohtani enjoyed being compared to Babe Ruth. This is what Ohtani said on the comparison, “It’s always a huge honor to be put in the same sentence as Babe Ruth”.

Notably, Ruth was also a two-way star in the MLB and Ohtani seems to be following in his footsteps. It will be interesting to see how Ohtani plays during the 2023 season and whether he can carry this fantastic form forward.

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Many MLB fans lament the fact that Shohei Ohtani is playing with the Angels, a team that has been uncompetitive for years. His production could have easily elevated more competitive teams in the playoffs.

When will Shohei Ohtani be a free agent?

Shohei Ohtani will be a free agent after the 2023 MLB season and most likely leave the Angels. Ohtani signed a one-year $30 million contract with the Angels to avoid arbitration. However, he is likely to change teams in free agency unless the Los Angeles Angels make the playoffs this season.

Ohtani’s free agency will be a hot topic during the 2023 season, with teams likely to start a bidding war for his signature.

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Ohtani has shown a commitment to improving his game and his 2023 contract year will be one to watch. Do you think the Los Angeles Angels will be competitive in 2023 or will they lose Shohei Ohtani due to a lack of success?