It is becoming clearer that Shohei Ohtani has played his last game for the Los Angeles Angels.
He has cleared out his locker, the Angels claiming this is due to his being placed on the Injured List with a strained oblique. Although he is not returning this year, he is expected to remain around the Angels for the next few days. From there, he will focus on treatment for his torn ulnar collateral ligament.
Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani could get two paydays
Ohtani will have plenty of attention in free agency. He had been expected to shatter records, potentially earning the highest average annual value and most money ever given to a player. That changed with his UCL injury which could necessitate his second Tommy John surgery. Now Ohtani’s next contract is much more of a mystery.
There is a way for Ohtani to still get that monster payout. He will turn 30 years old next year and is still in the midst of his hypothetical prime. He can still be an impact player as a hitter and pitcher for years to come. That is something that teams around the league, as well as his representatives,
Given the relative uncertainty around Ohtani’s return to the mound, it would not be a shock if he signed a two year deal. He would still be able to receive a significant payday, potentially receiving $30 million or more per year. Ohtani would then be able to prove that he is healthy and can contribute again on the mound, potentially lining up another large deal. He may not get the long term deal up front, but it is still there.
Shohei Ohtani is getting closer to leaving the Los Angeles Angels. It would not be a surprise to see him take a short term deal before finding a permanent home.
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