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ANAHEIM, CA – SEPTEMBER 19: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels looks for an umpire to check his equipment after pitching in the first inning of the game against the Oakland Athletics at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 19, 2021 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
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ANAHEIM, CA – SEPTEMBER 19: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels looks for an umpire to check his equipment after pitching in the first inning of the game against the Oakland Athletics at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 19, 2021 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Angels’ Shohei Ohtani is the frontrunner for the Most Valuable Player award for the 2021 MLB season. However, it’s shocking that he would not be appearing in the post-season.
While his team’s disappointing run continued, the all-rounder has outperformed himself this year. Notably, disappointed with yet another defeat recently, Shohei made hinted at a possible departure in search of success elsewhere.
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However, Shohei Ohtani is bonded to stay with the Los Angeles Angels until the 2023 season. Only after that, he will become a free agent.
Ohtani needs to play two more years with Los Angeles Angels
MLB star Shohei Ohtani signed the contract with Los Angeles Angels back in 2018. According to MLB rules, players have to spend at least six years of big-league service time before they qualify to become a free agent. Ohtani has played four seasons with the Angels and will have to have to wait two more years before she switches colors.
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ARLINGTON, TEXAS – APRIL 28: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels takes the field for pregame warmups before the Angels take on the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on April 28, 2021 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
When Ohtani came to MLB, he had to choose between arriving in America as quickly as possible vs maximizing his earnings. Hence, Shohei signed with the Los Angeles Angels for $2.3 million initially. Given his potential, the amount seemed to be less, but Ohtani had to wait until he was a non-amateur free agent.
Read more: “I Want to Win”: Shohei Ohtani Frustrated With Los Angeles Angels Losing
Will Shohei Ohtani make the switch?
Lost Angeles Angels’ two significant players Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout have both expressed their disappointment this year. Shockingly, the Angels have not reached the postseason since 2014. Since Ohtani joined the team in 2018, he too is yet to feature in the post-season.
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) sits in the dugout before being introduced during a pregame awards ceremony at Angel Stadium. Ohtani was given the team MVP and Nick Adenhart Awards before a game against the Seattle Mariners. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Given the disappointment he faced this season, Ohtani did not seem confident about his future with the Los Angeles Angels. Although Ohtani has a soft heart for the team, winning is his priority and he will not compromise.
Do you think the Los Angeles Angels would act upon their shortfalls or will Ohtani, frustrated, take a drastic step in 2023?
Read more: “He’s Just Venting”: Los Angeles Angels Manager Assures Shohei Ohtani is Not Going Anywhere
