Shohei Ohtani sent shockwaves through the baseball world last week. He indicated that he was not ready to commit to a long term deal with the Los Angeles Angels because he wanted the team to prove that they would actually win and reach the postseason. As Ohtani has had a front row seat to Mike Trout‘s inability to reach the playoffs since 2014, it is understandable that he does not want to suffer the same fate.
But Ohtani may be having a change of heart. According to reports, he is open to discussing a long term extension with the Angels this offseason.
Shohei Ohtani said he is "very open" to negotiating an extension this winter. #Angels
— Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) October 3, 2021
Shohei Ohtani should make Los Angeles Angels prove commitment to winning
From a purely financial standpoint, such a move makes sense. Ohtani had the type of season that had never been seen in the majors, producing a 156 OPS+ with 45 homers and 26 steals at the plate, while posting a 3.18 ERA and a 1.090 WHiP in his 130.1 innings on the mound, striking out 156 batters. There is seemingly no question that he will be named the AL MVP.
But that is not necessarily Ohtani’s primary concern. He has made it quite clear that he wants to win far more than individual awards. Being one of the best players in the game, and being compensated as such, would certainly be close to the top of his desires, but a postseason berth is important as well.
As such, Ohtani should wait to see what the Angels do this offseason. Once again, they need to find another top of the rotation arm, someone that they can pair with him to give the team a formidable 1-2 punch. The bullpen will need to be rebuilt, even if Raisel Iglesias returns. There is a lot of heavy lifting that needs to be done.
Should the Angels go out and get that starter, and shore up their bullpen, then it would make sense for Ohtani to have those extension talks. Considering he is still under team control for two more seasons, there is reason to wait.
Shohei Ohtani has reversed course and says he is open to extension talks with the Los Angeles Angels. He may regret that decision.