“I’m glad you’re on my side.”
Los Angeles Angels Shohei Ohtani (29) participated as a starting pitcher and second batter in the Kansas City Race match of the ‘2023 Major League Baseball’ held at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, USA on the 22nd (Korean time). On this day, as a pitcher, he had 2 hits, 2 walks, 11 strikeouts and no runs in 7 innings as a pitcher, and as a batter, he recorded 1 hit in 4 at-bats. Amid Ohtani’s performance, the Angels won 2-0, breaking a two-game losing streak.
Coach Phil Nevin, who responded to an interview with the local media after the game, was also delighted with Ohtani’s performance. The American media ‘LA Times’ quoted coach Nevin as saying, “As a hitter, I would have never known what to prepare for. He can command a fastball that reaches 98 mph, and can also catch counts as a sweeper,” he praised Ohtani.
On this day, Ohtani threw a total of 102 pitches, attacking opponent batters with a variety of pitches, including fastballs, sweepers, splitters, sliders, cut fastballs, and curveballs. He confuses hitters by adjusting the strength of his fast ball. Ohtani said, “The curve is definitely one of my weapons. I felt like I had to use it today.” He was satisfied with his performance.
Director Nevin said, “I’m glad I didn’t have to face Ohtani. I am happy that he is on my side,” he praised Ohtani’s pitching. The head coach gave the player the best compliment he could give.
As an ally, Ohtani is reliable, but he could become an enemy that threatens the Angels from next year. This is because Ohtani will qualify for free agency after the 2023 season.
Ohtani’s future is already drawing keen attention from the local media. Since last year, certain clubs interested in Ohtani have been mentioned. The ransom is expected to start at $500 million and reach up to $600 million. The highest in MLB history is Angels Mike Trout’s 12-year, $426.5 million. 스포츠토토
Big market clubs such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants are expected to open their wallets to recruit Ohtani. Ohtani wants to play for a team that can challenge for the presidency, so there is a high possibility that he will wear a uniform other than the Angels.
Ohtani is still with the Angels. 2023 may be the last time you run in a red uniform. I wonder what ending awaits.