Los Angeles Angels manager Phil Nevin said yesterday that dual-threat superstar Shohei Ohtani could be set to return in today’s game against the Seattle Mariners, per MLB editorial producer/reporter Adrian Garro. According to Garro, Nevin said Ohtani could start or be available off the bench against the Mariners.
Ohtani has become known for his ability to dominate on the mound as a starting pitcher while also being one of the MLB’s greatest power hitters. However, after suffering a torn UCL, Ohtani will not pitch again this season. So, when Nevin said he could start, he was alluding to being in the initial batting lineup.
The 2021 MVP Award winner has been sidelined for over a week now and seems to have his sights set on a return sooner than later. Through 144 games, the Angels have a 67-77 record, trailing the Houston Astros by 15 games for first place in the American League West Standings.
The Angels also trail the Mariners by 12.5 games for the third and final spot in the AL Wild Card standings. With only 18 games remaining, the Angels are virtually eliminated from playoff contention barring some sort of miraculous late-season turnaround, so Ohtani’s return to the lineup is questionable.
Currently playing out the final year of his contract, Ohtani’s pending free agency bears watching. If he elects to test free agency and not re-sign with the Angels, he will most sought-after free agent in the league and have a case to receive the richest contract in MLB history.
Despite the looming contract situation, the Angels shut down trade offers for Ohtani this season. ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that the Angels were “underwhelmed” by offers made for Ohtani.
