Trade Ohtani for a couple high level prospects. We have no business paying him and if you want to resign him then I hope you enjoy a few more years of basically the same team that we’ve had the last few.
We’re stuck with Trout and Rendon for now.
This off season sign Rys Hoskins, Josh Bell or Jeimer Candelario to short deals. Keep the versatility pile of Drury/Escobar. Maybe resign Urshela or add Joey Wendle. Keep Moniak and play him. Keep Thaiss/O’Hoppe at catcher. Sign Aaron Nola, Blake Snell or Julio Urias.
Hope Sandoval, Detmers and Anderson course correct in the second half.
Bring up more kids. Arte’s not selling for now, get over it. Get on with life.
Or tear it all down. Zack Neto. Team captain. Load up on prospects. Draft in the top 5. I may be the only guy who enjoys this….
Or…. just become a Doyers fan.
I wonder if… now that the Indian Burial Ground has claimed another pile of multi-million dollar body parts… Arte will actually sell this off season? Same piss ant fan base though, so will it matter long term? Maybe?
I’ve said it here before. It’s time to tear it down and rebuild. Let someone else pay gobs of money on a long-term contract for a player who had his best years with another team. He will not be able to sustain this level of output for the long term and certainly not for the life of a contract he is sure to get. I love Shohei and I loved that I got to see him play for my Angels but this is a no-brainer.
Q Not only you are hitting many homeruns, but also keeping >0.300 batting average. Do you feel that your bat has improved in terms of average.
A. No, I don’t think the average is that different in that I would have had the similar average if it weren’t for the defensive shift.
Q:What do you say in regards to your pitching thus far?
A:Regardless of whether pitching or batting, I have been saying that the set up position is important. I have had ‘good feel’ with the position more in batting department and not so much in pitching. I have not had good preparation before come-to-set and the initial part of the movements before pitch is thrown.
Q:You have led baseball centric life. Have you had time away from baseball?
A:Are you asking if I have time to relax? I have time to slow down. I do play with my smartphone in the locker room as my teammates. I personally do not feel that I think about baseball 24/7.
Q:We have an impression that you live, eat, and breathe baseball.
A:I am not being suffocated. (LOL). I enjoy my meals when I am hungry, and I go to sleep when I am sleepy.
Q:You are playing tomorrow in a stadium where Mr. Ichiro played.
A:I have already played here several times. But, I have never been to home locker room, so I did wonder where Ichiro’s locker might have been.
Q:We think that Japanese baseball has influenced American baseball. Do you feel the same? (That is such insulting question by Japanese media IMO.)
A:I have no idea what American baseball fans feel about that, but as for me, I am thankful to all my senior Japanese players who have come before me to establish an environment where I have simply followed. I also think that it is my obligation to maintain the same for future younger Japanese players.
Q:Now you have come to this year’s ASG, is there anything you think about next season.
A:I was in ASG past two years, so every year I would love to be in ASG. So I would feel the same next year.
Q:Has there been recruiting conversations (even as a joke) from other teams players?
A:It’s secret. (LOL)
Q: Are you nervous about the trade deadline?
A: Personally, no. It is something beyond my control. I will control what I can control during baseball games, which is the most difficult ability in baseball. So I would rather use my concentration on the difficult part.
Q:Angels are not considered a big market team, but what do you think of them receiving increased national attention?
A:Regardless of the size of the market, I love Angels fans and have been much grateful for their support by coming to the stadium, so I will continue to do my best one game at a time by controlling what I can control for them.
Q:There have been many rule changes such as pitch clock. What do you feel about them?
A:I don’t know what baseball fans have thought, but it is players responsibility to adjust to the change in rules once they are decided. They might be different again next year, and again I will just have to adjust.
Q:At the end of this season, you will become FA. How much do you think about it?
A:It is an area that I am totally unfamiliar since I had never been one. I am going to complete what I set out to do and would like to have a satisfying season by being injury free throughout.
Q:How special is this year?
A:In my mind, every year is special. I hope to do my best every year, and this year is no different, regardless of whether this is so called contract year or not. In fact, I tried to play every season like it is contract year.
Q:Is there anyone you are looking forward to meeting?
A:I think I have talked to just about everyone during the course of season, so not particularly. But, I am stoked that Esty (Estevez) has been selected.
Q:You mentioned that you had never been an FA, but when you came directly from Nippon Ham Fighters, you were FA.
A:That is actually different case since I was actually posted by Fighters. So, I was really not an FA in a strict sense. (Angels paid $20MM as posting transaction feel to the Fighters in 2018. I am still learning. Still many questions linger regarding this transaction,)
Q:What is your relationship with Kodai Senga.
A:I have played with him on Team Japan functions, so I have talked to him several times then. But I have not talked to him since he joined the Mets.
Q: How Is your feeling toward the playoffs?
A: It is getting stronger every year. It is frustrating not being able to reach playoffs. It is natural to desire World Series championship, never having won one.
Q:What is your standard as far as deciding which team to play for next year?
A:I have not given any thought. I really do not have anything to say at this point. I will focus on having a good season. I will then spend time to ponder the next step.
Q:(From Cubs beat media) In 2018, I read that you were coming to the Cubs.
A:Well, those articles tend to be false or lies. Totally off target, don’t know what they are talking about, and sometimes I feel that they are extremely self-serving. (LOL)
Q:Do you like Chicago?
A:Yes I like Chicago. I will not say if that article is a lie or truth here, but it is probably known whether it is true or not. Everyone knows that Cubs is a fine baseball organization.
Q:What do you think of Seattle?
A:I spent almost 4 months here 2 seasons ago in off season, so I find Seattle comfortable and livable.
Q:In recent MLB drafts, several 2 way players have been selected.
A:I don’t know the details, but I am glad that I may be the one who have established a possible path for those desiring to explore the possibility. I will be totally open to their questions if I can assist in any way.
I think the session was close to 50 minutes, easily more than twice as long as the ones after Sho pitched. I am in extra awe with Sho and Ippei’s mental fortitude and endurance to fend off the stupidity and repetitiousness of these questions.
I have deliberately skipped a few questions (about 4) because they were about Ichiro and essentially same questions. Japanese media inquiries were not translated by Ippei for English speaking media, so Seattle media probably did not realize the questions regarding Ichiro had been previously asked.
No overslot gambits this year in the 11-13 rounds. Looks like whatever savings they had will be directed to the 8th rounder Kent.
The Angels have gone completely off the board this year. Only one draftee among the consensus top 100 prospects, in a year when there was a good amount of consensus and most teams stuck the script.
Either the Angels know something other teams don’t, or the obliteration of their scouting corps during the pandemic is showing.
Start moving bodies. Get Moore healthy and ready to move. Renfroe, gone. We obviously should be trading Shohei. Eduardo Escobar, may as well. Move the Moose. I’d move Drury if we can get a nice return, but I’d keep him if they plan on aggressively retooling next year after Shohei. Move Rengifo please, for the only reason of not needing to watch him next year. Who I’m I missing?
Ohtani should be at the top of the list. But unless Im getting a massive deal id just keep him.Then there’s the three Rens and Friends:
It would take a miracle to move Rendon I doubt you could even get the big dogs to take him in a Ohtani package
Renfroe definitely should be moved and maybe one of those guys that goes off for the acquiring team after the trade.
Rengifo should be traded just because I don’t want to suffer any more brain damage watching this guy buttercup us anymore
Escobar should be traded ( Im not sure what his value) but unless you want to see Kevin Padlo back with the big club Im ambivalent on this one.
Assuming hes healthy,It would took a great trade package for me to consider moving Brandon Drury. hes not really blocking anyone in the system with his position versatility and hes signed very reasonably through next year.
I feel the same way about Estévez
DeWebbski could be traded but only if we get something of value in return since both near league minimum. But again it’s not like they have healthy viable replacements right now. Im still trying to Forget Herget and I know what I dont Wantz for our setup men replacements.
Moore could be moved to save money since he makes way Moore than the 2 righties. But we have no viable Lefty setup men in the system right now.
Predictions. If he stays healthy and I’d do it asap, trade Moore back to the Rangers. Familiarity just makes sense for them. Disregard the AL West incest, they should give us a nice return.
Seeing Renfroe definitely having an appeal for those serious playoff contenders. Extra OFer, insurance policy. His defense only will get us some value….I’d see the Doyers, Baltimore, SF, Yanks or maybe even Houston having a bidding war on him.
Now idea why, Rengifo to AZ or SF or Twins……..for a used lotto ticket that has a coupon for a free hotdog.
For the right price I’d see them give up on Estévez. Again I could see the Rangers give up some talent, bullpen away from a WS winner. Moore and Este in a package deal.
It helps to sell mid-season, about-to-be-free-agent players within the division because when you take your divisional rivals’ prospects, you are making them weaker which increases your chances of winning games against them in the future.
This one is about a week old; but, an interesting read. Interesting to read the San Diego perspective around the time Ohtani decided to go with the Angels and how they view their chances of signing him in the off season. One of the more interesting quotes in the article: “The Angels, since 2018, have compiled a 373-422 regular-season record. The Padres, in the same time frame, have gone 380-413. Both franchises, in spite of significant investments, have often suffered from top-heavy rosters and a lack of useful depth.”
As predicted, Sho attracted the largest number of media people. I have no free access to MLB Network but viewed YouTube version this morning. It was about 75% Japanese media asking often foolish questions and rest of them either asking about trade deadline or disguised questions to see if Sho had any interest in certain teams. There was a question by Japanese media, who asked if Sho thought there was a curse on the Angels; Sho smartly ignored it. English speaking media, probably not understanding the curse question was on the floor, immediately asked another question, to which Ippei started translating for Shohei. Awkwardness saved by Ippei, again.
Q:ASG will be held tomorrow.
A:I feel blessed every time I am selected as All Star. The game is tomorrow, and I will enjoy the HRD tonight.
Q:What are you looking forward to for the game tomorrow.
A:I have not hit a homerun in ASG, so I would love to get one. I hope that I will be prepared to have a good batting performance.
Q:Have you discussed how many at bats you will have with Dusty?
A:No, I have not.
Q:Last year at ASG, you declared you would take a full swing at the first pitch.
A:I don’t even know what batting order I am in.
Q:You are batting in 2 hole.
A:I didn’t know that it was already announced. Then, I will be aggressive from the 1st inning. Facing a wonderful pitcher, I will pay extra attention to put a good swing at his pitch.
Q:In your mind, what Is ASG?
A:Since I am selected by fan votes, I would like to express my sincere gratitude by playing well and doing my best. It is not an event that it is guaranteed for me to participate every year, so I would love to be part of it as long as I am playing well.
Q:Is you approach at bat going to be different in ASG?
A:Relatively speaking, I don’t think it will be that different. I will probably be more aggressive in that I will not look for being walked. I believe people would enjoy more me being more aggressive, so I think I am going to swing powerfully.
Q:What is the source of energy to perform as two way player?
A:I basically love the game of baseball. I love to pitch and hit. I believe the most essential source is that I love playing the game.
Q:ASG in Seattle is held for the first time since Ichiro was a Mariner in 2021. Do you have any memory of the game.
A: No memory. I don’t think I have ever watched MLB ASG on TV.
Q:You don’t remember that Ichiro played in the ASG?
A: I may have viewed a movie clip of Ichiro in San Francisco ASG, but as far as Seattle is concerned, I remember more of regular season games that he played here.
Q:This is your third in a row ASG participation and you have not won MVP. What sort of performance would you like to have?
A:For regular season or ASG? (Media mumbling ASG) As I mentioned earlier, I would love to hit a homerun.
Q:To win (ASG) MVP, are you going to be ‘your natural self’ or intentionally aiming for it?
A:Probably be my natural self. If I am able to put a good swing, and the end result is a homerun, I might qualify for it.
Q:You decided not to take part in HRD this time.
A:I don’t feel that my present condition is such that I would be able to participate in HRD, and the same goes for pitching.
Q:You played in WBC, and this was somewhat different first half of the season than others. What is your impression of the first half?
A:Well, I still believe that we are in good position. I feel that we had many competitive games during the first half. Yes, we did have strings of losses toward the end, but we played relatively well until then. I am going to focus on ASG tomorrow, and then I will shift my focus on the second half.
Q:What is your oldest memory of ASG?
A:I don’t have any old memory. I would rather playing baseball than watching. (LOL)
Q:What is your oldest memory as far as baseball is concerned?
A:The oldest I can remember is when I joined a baseball team as 2nd grader. I don’t remember when I started throwing baseball.
Q:Do you change your routine at ASG?
A:I don’t plan to. I am going to play catch on the field and throw few pitches in bullpen.
Q:What time do you wake up in the morning when you have a game at night.
A:It depends on whether home or visitor.
Q:How about at home.
A:I do get up for breakfast and then go back to sleep.
Q:What time?
A:It is about 9:30 to 10 am. Then I return to bed.
Q:You go to sleep immediately after breakfast?
A:Yes, I go to sleep. I wake up, go to stadium and eat there again.
Q:What constitutes your breakfast?
A;It is like average light meal. I will have real meal at stadium.
Q:Your Team Japan teammates mentioned you like boiled eggs at WBC.
A:That was because they were all light meals, just rice balls and boiled eggs.
Q:Other than sleeping, how do you spend your time relaxing. Netflix, go out for movies?
A:I do watch comedies and movies. I spend relaxing time at home alone.
Q: Japanese comedies?
A: Yes.
Q: In New York, you mentioned that you do not go out to eat. Do you go out during baseball season?
A: I do not during the season. Today, I will go out with my agents and others. I don’t have any recollection of ever going out during baseball season.
Q:As far as the reason you do not go out for meals, is it because you do not want to consume something different from usual or is it because you would like spend relaxing time at home or hotel?
A:Basically, meals are available at stadiums, and if the game is away, I would ask room service for meals at hotel if I am still hungry. I don’t want to be late by going out if I have a game the next day.
This is part I. I have to eat my breakfast and put my make up on so I can present myself to the world without scaring them too much. Part II will follow in a few hours.
Remember back at the end of Spring Training when the hot topic on CtPG was which pitchers we thought should make the Opening Day roster? Well, that’s all rather moot because every pitcher who shows up for Spring Training is going to have their turn to pitch for the Angels at some point during the regular season.
Your numbers here show factual evidence of how valuable Ohtani is and how much he lifts the team.
Therefore, if we make the one supposition that one way or another, he is NOT on the team next year, then I think we have pretty good evidence that this team is extremely unlikely to contend next year. Unless someone thinks that FA signings will make up the difference.
Anyway, given the above, I think that logically we should make trades that will cost us wins this year and next, in order to rebuild.
I say that because it seems that I keep seeing some respond strongly with “so you just want to get rid of all our best players” kind of responses.
In some cases, yes, that is what is required for the long-term good of the team.
Posted this late last night in the other thread. Found it interesting as it touches on many things we have all discussed about Ohtani-San.
Interesting article. Whisper numbers of Ohtani getting $1 Billion in his contract. And lots of other things we have been discussing including attendance pre- and post- Ohtani (spoiler- no real change) and whether Ohtani will pay for himself (per an executive- no way).
It seems like whenever these articles regarding Ohtani’s FA Salary are written , it like the writers conflate highest AAV with Highest total contract amount.
This article is no different.
Ohtani is definitely uber unique but I’m sure hes not unlike every other ball player that wants to be the highest paid player both in AAV and total contract amount. Even if it’s not the money that drives them, Its still the money that is a form of acknowledgment that they are the best in their craft.
When Mike Trout signed his record extension in 2019 it was the largest contract in MLB history both in AAV and total amount. To this day, even though he is now barely in the top ten in largest AAV but no-one has bested him in total contract at $426.5 million.
We all know This will be changing with Ohtani this offseason. But not at these fantasy levels being thrown around by the pundits. But more like in the $500 M to $600 M Range eclipsing the records in btoh AAV and total amount .
so My guess is 11 years 575 Million. Thats 20% higher than the highest ever AAV ( Max Scherzer $43.33 million) and 35% higher than Trouts still record total contract amount.
I think there is a chance he would sign a 4 year $320 million deal as well.
This is actually not an unreasonable contract. The AAV on this reflects his value as a true two-way player, not just as an ace, OR a power-hitter. You’re paying for UNICORN Shohei, in the realistic time period that he’s still ACTUALLY Unicorn Shohei.
I think execs all around MLB knows that there’s no way Shohei is still doing this UNICORN two-way thing successfully into his late 30s. The best value out of him, assuming he’s staying healthy, is the next four years of the contract. Then you’ll be saddled with the decision of having him as a full-time DH, a so-so starter, or a part-time 2-way player as a hitter and a reliever.
So a short 4-year contract sounds like a win-win for both parties – the team gets Unicorn Shohei, and Shohei can brag about the largest AAV in MLB history. Of course, the question is, does Shohei have the appetite to test FA waters again when he’s no longer Unicorn Shohei?
I could see this happening if Ohtani wants to stick in the U.S during his prime, win a world series, and then decide later whether to stay in the U.S. or return to Japan for his DH years.
If he has offers on the table for a guaranteed (for example) 10/550m and a guaranteed 4/320m, everyone takes the $550m.
No one knows what future holds, and injuries are part of the equation for all athletes. Just look how much Trout has broken down over the last few seasons. You take the payday and enjoy the generational wealth.
Having the bragging rights to the largest AAV does not seem important to someone with the make-up of Ohtani.
I think there could be a chance that Shohei re-signs with us for 4 years with maybe a player opt out after 2 if our organization is still as crappy as ever.
I see this potentially happening if the Angels just either barely made the WC or missed it. Angels can pitch him that there’s been a huge improvement of the team as compared to prior years, and that they would continue to improve.
There’s also the comfort factor here. The Angels can sell to Ohtani that the team let him do the 2-way thing as how he wanted it, where other teams can eventually limit him.
That takes the A’s and the Angels off the list of West Coast teams he’d sign with.
If we are going to be rooting for Shohei next year, which West Coast team do we want him to play for?
I’m hoping it’s the Padres. I’d be happy if their long suffering fan-base finally had a winner. Plus that means they would better the Dodgers, which is good.
The Mariners have never been to the World Series, so I would actually be okay rooting for the Mariners.
The Giants have won too many World Series recently, so I would follow the Giants rather than root for them if they had Shohei.
I would not be able to overcome my self-loathing if I tried to root for the Dodgers, however, just because they had Shohei.
Can you imagine how embarrassing it would be to be an Angel fan if the Dodgers won a World Series with Shohei while all the Angels could do was put up losing record after losing record with Ohtani?
Chicks don’t like to be called chicks…….and I agree with CB26. Man this place will never be the same without Shohei. The groupies will leave in droves. A ghost town will be an understatement. I’m sure even “Ghost Guest” is gone…And those that stick around will be checking in on him. Just like checking in on the “chick that breaks up with you” on her Instagram.
Who is starting the “Doomsday Countdown Clock” for the “Sho” and his eventual departure…probably should creat 2, a trade deadline one just in case this world class idiot owner finds his nut sack and does the right thing. And an October one. What a waste. I think it would have been impossible to manage this situation any worse.
Please be careful, CtPG faithfuls! The question that was asked was “Is your feeling regarding playoffs getting stronger?” To which, he answered, “yes, it is getting stronger every year. It is frustrating not being able to reach the playoffs. I think it is natural to desire World Series championship, never having won one.” Basically, he has not said anything different from what he has mentioned. If one asked any MLB baseball player, I believe he would have said the same if asked the same questions.
Remember that story as we’re approaching Trout’s huge FA year, where Mike’s agent approached the Angels and said “Let’s get this done, Mike wants this to be the last contract he signs’?
If Ohtani feels this way about losing (and I don’t blame him one bit), I wish he and his agent would just approach Arte and say, in polite and diplomatic terms, that there’s no way he’s signing with the Angels in the offseason, and in the interest of goodwill, that he wants to leave the team in a better shape than it’s been in, that it’s in the best interest of both parties he gets traded in the next 2 weeks so the Angels can get some prospects in return. Say their polite goodbyes and move on.
If Arte is still ever too stubborn to NOT trade him, even after Shohei’s request then oh well, what can we do? At least Shohei did his part in wanting and suggesting to leave the org in a better place when he leaves.
I watched the Q&A session and read Nikkan Sports Q&A transcript. No one asked him the importance of playing on a WS caliber or winning team. The question simply asked “is your feeling toward playoffs getting stronger?” That is it. This is a typical case prejudiced American media putting their words into making the statement sound the way they desired.
Got busy with some hassles yesterday and missed the HR Derby. When I saw Vlad Jr had won, the first thing that popped into my head was letting Deb know- Vlad Sr was her favorite player for a very long time. Hadn’t had a “forgetting she’s gone” moment like that in quite a while. She loved her Angels.
Good morning to all on All Star Tuesday. I always bet on the American League, so on my pad at my desk I have 11 dollars bet today with Grandkids and 5 of which is with my son, got to be careful here, I might lose the house 😀
I pulled for JR. to win the HR Derby and he did, kool stuff. I thought that the Derby was a lot fun to watch. I don’t know how they can swing the lumber time after time without their arms falling off.
Hope you have a great day and see ya later at game time. 😃
This would be my plan…. this plus whisky.
Trade Ohtani for a couple high level prospects. We have no business paying him and if you want to resign him then I hope you enjoy a few more years of basically the same team that we’ve had the last few.
We’re stuck with Trout and Rendon for now.
This off season sign Rys Hoskins, Josh Bell or Jeimer Candelario to short deals. Keep the versatility pile of Drury/Escobar. Maybe resign Urshela or add Joey Wendle. Keep Moniak and play him. Keep Thaiss/O’Hoppe at catcher. Sign Aaron Nola, Blake Snell or Julio Urias.
Hope Sandoval, Detmers and Anderson course correct in the second half.
Bring up more kids. Arte’s not selling for now, get over it. Get on with life.
Or tear it all down. Zack Neto. Team captain. Load up on prospects. Draft in the top 5. I may be the only guy who enjoys this….
Or…. just become a Doyers fan.
I wonder if… now that the Indian Burial Ground has claimed another pile of multi-million dollar body parts… Arte will actually sell this off season? Same piss ant fan base though, so will it matter long term? Maybe?
I’ve said it here before. It’s time to tear it down and rebuild. Let someone else pay gobs of money on a long-term contract for a player who had his best years with another team. He will not be able to sustain this level of output for the long term and certainly not for the life of a contract he is sure to get. I love Shohei and I loved that I got to see him play for my Angels but this is a no-brainer.
Shohei Q&A ASG part 2:
Q Not only you are hitting many homeruns, but also keeping >0.300 batting average. Do you feel that your bat has improved in terms of average.
A. No, I don’t think the average is that different in that I would have had the similar average if it weren’t for the defensive shift.
Q:What do you say in regards to your pitching thus far?
A:Regardless of whether pitching or batting, I have been saying that the set up position is important. I have had ‘good feel’ with the position more in batting department and not so much in pitching. I have not had good preparation before come-to-set and the initial part of the movements before pitch is thrown.
Q:You have led baseball centric life. Have you had time away from baseball?
A:Are you asking if I have time to relax? I have time to slow down. I do play with my smartphone in the locker room as my teammates. I personally do not feel that I think about baseball 24/7.
Q:We have an impression that you live, eat, and breathe baseball.
A:I am not being suffocated. (LOL). I enjoy my meals when I am hungry, and I go to sleep when I am sleepy.
Q:You are playing tomorrow in a stadium where Mr. Ichiro played.
A:I have already played here several times. But, I have never been to home locker room, so I did wonder where Ichiro’s locker might have been.
Q:We think that Japanese baseball has influenced American baseball. Do you feel the same? (That is such insulting question by Japanese media IMO.)
A:I have no idea what American baseball fans feel about that, but as for me, I am thankful to all my senior Japanese players who have come before me to establish an environment where I have simply followed. I also think that it is my obligation to maintain the same for future younger Japanese players.
Q:Now you have come to this year’s ASG, is there anything you think about next season.
A:I was in ASG past two years, so every year I would love to be in ASG. So I would feel the same next year.
Q:Has there been recruiting conversations (even as a joke) from other teams players?
A:It’s secret. (LOL)
Q: Are you nervous about the trade deadline?
A: Personally, no. It is something beyond my control. I will control what I can control during baseball games, which is the most difficult ability in baseball. So I would rather use my concentration on the difficult part.
Q:Angels are not considered a big market team, but what do you think of them receiving increased national attention?
A:Regardless of the size of the market, I love Angels fans and have been much grateful for their support by coming to the stadium, so I will continue to do my best one game at a time by controlling what I can control for them.
Q:There have been many rule changes such as pitch clock. What do you feel about them?
A:I don’t know what baseball fans have thought, but it is players responsibility to adjust to the change in rules once they are decided. They might be different again next year, and again I will just have to adjust.
Q:At the end of this season, you will become FA. How much do you think about it?
A:It is an area that I am totally unfamiliar since I had never been one. I am going to complete what I set out to do and would like to have a satisfying season by being injury free throughout.
Q:How special is this year?
A:In my mind, every year is special. I hope to do my best every year, and this year is no different, regardless of whether this is so called contract year or not. In fact, I tried to play every season like it is contract year.
Q:Is there anyone you are looking forward to meeting?
A:I think I have talked to just about everyone during the course of season, so not particularly. But, I am stoked that Esty (Estevez) has been selected.
Q:You mentioned that you had never been an FA, but when you came directly from Nippon Ham Fighters, you were FA.
A:That is actually different case since I was actually posted by Fighters. So, I was really not an FA in a strict sense. (Angels paid $20MM as posting transaction feel to the Fighters in 2018. I am still learning. Still many questions linger regarding this transaction,)
Q:What is your relationship with Kodai Senga.
A:I have played with him on Team Japan functions, so I have talked to him several times then. But I have not talked to him since he joined the Mets.
Q: How Is your feeling toward the playoffs?
A: It is getting stronger every year. It is frustrating not being able to reach playoffs. It is natural to desire World Series championship, never having won one.
Q:What is your standard as far as deciding which team to play for next year?
A:I have not given any thought. I really do not have anything to say at this point. I will focus on having a good season. I will then spend time to ponder the next step.
Q:(From Cubs beat media) In 2018, I read that you were coming to the Cubs.
A:Well, those articles tend to be false or lies. Totally off target, don’t know what they are talking about, and sometimes I feel that they are extremely self-serving. (LOL)
Q:Do you like Chicago?
A:Yes I like Chicago. I will not say if that article is a lie or truth here, but it is probably known whether it is true or not. Everyone knows that Cubs is a fine baseball organization.
Q:What do you think of Seattle?
A:I spent almost 4 months here 2 seasons ago in off season, so I find Seattle comfortable and livable.
Q:In recent MLB drafts, several 2 way players have been selected.
A:I don’t know the details, but I am glad that I may be the one who have established a possible path for those desiring to explore the possibility. I will be totally open to their questions if I can assist in any way.
I think the session was close to 50 minutes, easily more than twice as long as the ones after Sho pitched. I am in extra awe with Sho and Ippei’s mental fortitude and endurance to fend off the stupidity and repetitiousness of these questions.
I have deliberately skipped a few questions (about 4) because they were about Ichiro and essentially same questions. Japanese media inquiries were not translated by Ippei for English speaking media, so Seattle media probably did not realize the questions regarding Ichiro had been previously asked.
They drafted Ben Joyce’s twin brother Zach in the 14th.
Eventual Ligament donor.
That’s not a bad thought especially if they are identical twins, so there will not be any tissue rejection. Brutal thought, though.
Ding ding
You win the internet today. Congratulations!
No overslot gambits this year in the 11-13 rounds. Looks like whatever savings they had will be directed to the 8th rounder Kent.
The Angels have gone completely off the board this year. Only one draftee among the consensus top 100 prospects, in a year when there was a good amount of consensus and most teams stuck the script.
Either the Angels know something other teams don’t, or the obliteration of their scouting corps during the pandemic is showing.
If I were home I’d put in the Vader gif “I find your lack of faith disturbing”….
I do actually… and I agree with you.
Good grief, this team is already struggling in so many ways right now; couldn’t we have at least a good draft?
the tank has begun….unfortunately they failed to realize you don’t tank the actual draft selections
No day 3 draft thread?
We just picked up a podunk high school shortstop from South Carolina.
Start moving bodies.
Get Moore healthy and ready to move. Renfroe, gone. We obviously should be trading Shohei. Eduardo Escobar, may as well. Move the Moose. I’d move Drury if we can get a nice return, but I’d keep him if they plan on aggressively retooling next year after Shohei. Move Rengifo please, for the only reason of not needing to watch him next year.
Who I’m I missing?
Ohtani should be at the top of the list. But unless Im getting a massive deal id just keep him.Then there’s the three Rens and Friends:
Predictions. If he stays healthy and I’d do it asap, trade Moore back to the Rangers. Familiarity just makes sense for them. Disregard the AL West incest, they should give us a nice return.
Seeing Renfroe definitely having an appeal for those serious playoff contenders. Extra OFer, insurance policy. His defense only will get us some value….I’d see the Doyers, Baltimore, SF, Yanks or maybe even Houston having a bidding war on him.
Now idea why, Rengifo to AZ or SF or Twins……..for a used lotto ticket that has a coupon for a free hotdog.
For the right price I’d see them give up on Estévez. Again I could see the Rangers give up some talent, bullpen away from a WS winner. Moore and Este in a package deal.
Re: “AL West Incest”
It helps to sell mid-season, about-to-be-free-agent players within the division because when you take your divisional rivals’ prospects, you are making them weaker which increases your chances of winning games against them in the future.
This one is about a week old; but, an interesting read. Interesting to read the San Diego perspective around the time Ohtani decided to go with the Angels and how they view their chances of signing him in the off season. One of the more interesting quotes in the article: “The Angels, since 2018, have compiled a 373-422 regular-season record. The Padres, in the same time frame, have gone 380-413. Both franchises, in spite of significant investments, have often suffered from top-heavy rosters and a lack of useful depth.”
Why would Shohei Ohtani want to sign with the Padres? – The Athletic
As predicted, Sho attracted the largest number of media people. I have no free access to MLB Network but viewed YouTube version this morning. It was about 75% Japanese media asking often foolish questions and rest of them either asking about trade deadline or disguised questions to see if Sho had any interest in certain teams. There was a question by Japanese media, who asked if Sho thought there was a curse on the Angels; Sho smartly ignored it. English speaking media, probably not understanding the curse question was on the floor, immediately asked another question, to which Ippei started translating for Shohei. Awkwardness saved by Ippei, again.
Q:ASG will be held tomorrow.
A:I feel blessed every time I am selected as All Star. The game is tomorrow, and I will enjoy the HRD tonight.
Q:What are you looking forward to for the game tomorrow.
A:I have not hit a homerun in ASG, so I would love to get one. I hope that I will be prepared to have a good batting performance.
Q:Have you discussed how many at bats you will have with Dusty?
A:No, I have not.
Q:Last year at ASG, you declared you would take a full swing at the first pitch.
A:I don’t even know what batting order I am in.
Q:You are batting in 2 hole.
A:I didn’t know that it was already announced. Then, I will be aggressive from the 1st inning. Facing a wonderful pitcher, I will pay extra attention to put a good swing at his pitch.
Q:In your mind, what Is ASG?
A:Since I am selected by fan votes, I would like to express my sincere gratitude by playing well and doing my best. It is not an event that it is guaranteed for me to participate every year, so I would love to be part of it as long as I am playing well.
Q:Is you approach at bat going to be different in ASG?
A:Relatively speaking, I don’t think it will be that different. I will probably be more aggressive in that I will not look for being walked. I believe people would enjoy more me being more aggressive, so I think I am going to swing powerfully.
Q:What is the source of energy to perform as two way player?
A:I basically love the game of baseball. I love to pitch and hit. I believe the most essential source is that I love playing the game.
Q:ASG in Seattle is held for the first time since Ichiro was a Mariner in 2021. Do you have any memory of the game.
A: No memory. I don’t think I have ever watched MLB ASG on TV.
Q:You don’t remember that Ichiro played in the ASG?
A: I may have viewed a movie clip of Ichiro in San Francisco ASG, but as far as Seattle is concerned, I remember more of regular season games that he played here.
Q:This is your third in a row ASG participation and you have not won MVP. What sort of performance would you like to have?
A:For regular season or ASG? (Media mumbling ASG) As I mentioned earlier, I would love to hit a homerun.
Q:To win (ASG) MVP, are you going to be ‘your natural self’ or intentionally aiming for it?
A:Probably be my natural self. If I am able to put a good swing, and the end result is a homerun, I might qualify for it.
Q:You decided not to take part in HRD this time.
A:I don’t feel that my present condition is such that I would be able to participate in HRD, and the same goes for pitching.
Q:You played in WBC, and this was somewhat different first half of the season than others. What is your impression of the first half?
A:Well, I still believe that we are in good position. I feel that we had many competitive games during the first half. Yes, we did have strings of losses toward the end, but we played relatively well until then. I am going to focus on ASG tomorrow, and then I will shift my focus on the second half.
Q:What is your oldest memory of ASG?
A:I don’t have any old memory. I would rather playing baseball than watching. (LOL)
Q:What is your oldest memory as far as baseball is concerned?
A:The oldest I can remember is when I joined a baseball team as 2nd grader. I don’t remember when I started throwing baseball.
Q:Do you change your routine at ASG?
A:I don’t plan to. I am going to play catch on the field and throw few pitches in bullpen.
Q:What time do you wake up in the morning when you have a game at night.
A:It depends on whether home or visitor.
Q:How about at home.
A:I do get up for breakfast and then go back to sleep.
Q:What time?
A:It is about 9:30 to 10 am. Then I return to bed.
Q:You go to sleep immediately after breakfast?
A:Yes, I go to sleep. I wake up, go to stadium and eat there again.
Q:What constitutes your breakfast?
A;It is like average light meal. I will have real meal at stadium.
Q:Your Team Japan teammates mentioned you like boiled eggs at WBC.
A:That was because they were all light meals, just rice balls and boiled eggs.
Q:Other than sleeping, how do you spend your time relaxing. Netflix, go out for movies?
A:I do watch comedies and movies. I spend relaxing time at home alone.
Q: Japanese comedies?
A: Yes.
Q: In New York, you mentioned that you do not go out to eat. Do you go out during baseball season?
A: I do not during the season. Today, I will go out with my agents and others. I don’t have any recollection of ever going out during baseball season.
Q:As far as the reason you do not go out for meals, is it because you do not want to consume something different from usual or is it because you would like spend relaxing time at home or hotel?
A:Basically, meals are available at stadiums, and if the game is away, I would ask room service for meals at hotel if I am still hungry. I don’t want to be late by going out if I have a game the next day.
This is part I. I have to eat my breakfast and put my make up on so I can present myself to the world without scaring them too much. Part II will follow in a few hours.
Great effort thanks
Ohtani attracted the most sports journalists because they all want an “Angel Investor” for their next venture.
It has been a while since there were any new links page to post this on, so here it is.
The Angels scored nine runs in their short two-game set against the Dodgers. Here are the actual runs each individual Angel produced:
2.75 Moniak
2.25 Ohtani
1.50 Moustakas
1.00 Fletcher
0.50 Rengifo
0.50 Ward
0.25 Escobar
0.25 Thaiss
This is the fourth time Moniak has led the Angels in Actual Runs Produced.
Here is a list of how many times each Angel has led the team in ARP this year:
10 Ohtani
4 Moniak
4 Trout
2 Rengifo
2 Drury
2 Ward
2 Renfroe
1 Urshela
1 Neto
1 Rendon
1 O’Hoppe
It’s ridiculous how valuable Ohtani is to this Angel team. Can you imagine the intense suckage the Angels would have without him?
And here is the year-to-date Actual Runs Allowed per Batters Faced for our Angel pitchers:
0.05 Moore (94)
0.06 Estevez (147)
0.09 Bachman (77)
0.09 Soriano (61)
0.10 Ohtani (407)
0.10 Webb (91)
0.10 Joyce (21)
0.11 Sandoval (385)
0.11 Detmers (366)
0.12 Canning (310)
0.12 Barria (223)
0.13 Anderson (376)
0.13 Silseth (84)
0.14 Devenski (133)
0.15 Wantz (96)
0.15 Weiss (13)
0.16 Davidson (141)
0.16 Loup (116)
0.17 Herget (69)
0.19 Suarez (123)
0.21 Mederos (14)
0.23 Ingram (14)
0.23 Reyes (13)
Remember back at the end of Spring Training when the hot topic on CtPG was which pitchers we thought should make the Opening Day roster? Well, that’s all rather moot because every pitcher who shows up for Spring Training is going to have their turn to pitch for the Angels at some point during the regular season.
Your numbers here show factual evidence of how valuable Ohtani is and how much he lifts the team.
Therefore, if we make the one supposition that one way or another, he is NOT on the team next year, then I think we have pretty good evidence that this team is extremely unlikely to contend next year. Unless someone thinks that FA signings will make up the difference.
Anyway, given the above, I think that logically we should make trades that will cost us wins this year and next, in order to rebuild.
I say that because it seems that I keep seeing some respond strongly with “so you just want to get rid of all our best players” kind of responses.
In some cases, yes, that is what is required for the long-term good of the team.
Posted this late last night in the other thread. Found it interesting as it touches on many things we have all discussed about Ohtani-San.
Interesting article. Whisper numbers of Ohtani getting $1 Billion in his contract. And lots of other things we have been discussing including attendance pre- and post- Ohtani (spoiler- no real change) and whether Ohtani will pay for himself (per an executive- no way).
https://www.sportico.com/leagues/baseball/2023/shohei-ohtani-free-agent-contract-unlimited-potential-1234729982/amp/
It seems like whenever these articles regarding Ohtani’s FA Salary are written , it like the writers conflate highest AAV with Highest total contract amount.
This article is no different.
Ohtani is definitely uber unique but I’m sure hes not unlike every other ball player that wants to be the highest paid player both in AAV and total contract amount. Even if it’s not the money that drives them, Its still the money that is a form of acknowledgment that they are the best in their craft.
When Mike Trout signed his record extension in 2019 it was the largest contract in MLB history both in AAV and total amount. To this day, even though he is now barely in the top ten in largest AAV but no-one has bested him in total contract at $426.5 million.
We all know This will be changing with Ohtani this offseason. But not at these fantasy levels being thrown around by the pundits. But more like in the $500 M to $600 M Range eclipsing the records in btoh AAV and total amount .
so My guess is 11 years 575 Million. Thats 20% higher than the highest ever AAV ( Max Scherzer $43.33 million) and 35% higher than Trouts still record total contract amount.
I think that’s a reasonable guess. Depends on the bidding war I guess.
I think there is a chance he would sign a 4 year $320 million deal as well.
This is actually not an unreasonable contract. The AAV on this reflects his value as a true two-way player, not just as an ace, OR a power-hitter. You’re paying for UNICORN Shohei, in the realistic time period that he’s still ACTUALLY Unicorn Shohei.
I think execs all around MLB knows that there’s no way Shohei is still doing this UNICORN two-way thing successfully into his late 30s. The best value out of him, assuming he’s staying healthy, is the next four years of the contract. Then you’ll be saddled with the decision of having him as a full-time DH, a so-so starter, or a part-time 2-way player as a hitter and a reliever.
So a short 4-year contract sounds like a win-win for both parties – the team gets Unicorn Shohei, and Shohei can brag about the largest AAV in MLB history. Of course, the question is, does Shohei have the appetite to test FA waters again when he’s no longer Unicorn Shohei?
I could see this happening if Ohtani wants to stick in the U.S during his prime, win a world series, and then decide later whether to stay in the U.S. or return to Japan for his DH years.
If he has offers on the table for a guaranteed (for example) 10/550m and a guaranteed 4/320m, everyone takes the $550m.
No one knows what future holds, and injuries are part of the equation for all athletes. Just look how much Trout has broken down over the last few seasons. You take the payday and enjoy the generational wealth.
Having the bragging rights to the largest AAV does not seem important to someone with the make-up of Ohtani.
I think there could be a chance that Shohei re-signs with us for 4 years with maybe a player opt out after 2 if our organization is still as crappy as ever.
I see this potentially happening if the Angels just either barely made the WC or missed it. Angels can pitch him that there’s been a huge improvement of the team as compared to prior years, and that they would continue to improve.
There’s also the comfort factor here. The Angels can sell to Ohtani that the team let him do the 2-way thing as how he wanted it, where other teams can eventually limit him.
Oh, and there’s video for good measure:
https://twitter.com/SNYtv/status/1678486672571236353
That takes the A’s and the Angels off the list of West Coast teams he’d sign with.
If we are going to be rooting for Shohei next year, which West Coast team do we want him to play for?
I’m hoping it’s the Padres. I’d be happy if their long suffering fan-base finally had a winner. Plus that means they would better the Dodgers, which is good.
The Mariners have never been to the World Series, so I would actually be okay rooting for the Mariners.
The Giants have won too many World Series recently, so I would follow the Giants rather than root for them if they had Shohei.
I would not be able to overcome my self-loathing if I tried to root for the Dodgers, however, just because they had Shohei.
Can you imagine how embarrassing it would be to be an Angel fan if the Dodgers won a World Series with Shohei while all the Angels could do was put up losing record after losing record with Ohtani?
Anyone but Seattle and Dodgers.
I probably won’t follow him as closely as I currently do but I’ll be happy if he goes to the Padres or Giants
D. None of the above.
Once he leaves here hes dead to me.
Good lord man, do you say that every time a girl breaks up with you?
Chicks don’t like to be called chicks…….and I agree with CB26. Man this place will never be the same without Shohei. The groupies will leave in droves. A ghost town will be an understatement. I’m sure even “Ghost Guest” is gone…And those that stick around will be checking in on him. Just like checking in on the “chick that breaks up with you” on her Instagram.
Who is starting the “Doomsday Countdown Clock” for the “Sho” and his eventual departure…probably should creat 2, a trade deadline one just in case this world class idiot owner finds his nut sack and does the right thing. And an October one. What a waste. I think it would have been impossible to manage this situation any worse.
I wouldn’t challenge The Angels on this one, they have the gifted ability to manage situations even worsyer than you think!
😆
yes, but should we really have hoped for any other outcome? I guess at this point that is on us. Fool me once, some other words
The Padres seem to have a lot of the problems that the Angels do in terms of winning even with a big pay roll and superstars.
And in leaving too many LOBsters
Please be careful, CtPG faithfuls! The question that was asked was “Is your feeling regarding playoffs getting stronger?” To which, he answered, “yes, it is getting stronger every year. It is frustrating not being able to reach the playoffs. I think it is natural to desire World Series championship, never having won one.” Basically, he has not said anything different from what he has mentioned. If one asked any MLB baseball player, I believe he would have said the same if asked the same questions.
Thank you! In that context it makes more sense. Snippets like this can get twisted real fast, but that’s what pundits are paid for.
Not blaming Ippei by the way.
Also predictably, this quote by Shohei, or more accurately, by Ippei is getting LOTS of attention and analysis:
https://www.mlb.com/angels/news/shohei-ohtani-arrives-seattle-all-star-game
Well – there you have it.
Remember that story as we’re approaching Trout’s huge FA year, where Mike’s agent approached the Angels and said “Let’s get this done, Mike wants this to be the last contract he signs’?
If Ohtani feels this way about losing (and I don’t blame him one bit), I wish he and his agent would just approach Arte and say, in polite and diplomatic terms, that there’s no way he’s signing with the Angels in the offseason, and in the interest of goodwill, that he wants to leave the team in a better shape than it’s been in, that it’s in the best interest of both parties he gets traded in the next 2 weeks so the Angels can get some prospects in return. Say their polite goodbyes and move on.
If Arte is still ever too stubborn to NOT trade him, even after Shohei’s request then oh well, what can we do? At least Shohei did his part in wanting and suggesting to leave the org in a better place when he leaves.
Tbh honest, I wish he did too, but he’s taking thr politically correct route unfortunately.
TBH already has “honest” in it – To Be Honest.
😀
I watched the Q&A session and read Nikkan Sports Q&A transcript. No one asked him the importance of playing on a WS caliber or winning team. The question simply asked “is your feeling toward playoffs getting stronger?” That is it. This is a typical case prejudiced American media putting their words into making the statement sound the way they desired.
Got busy with some hassles yesterday and missed the HR Derby. When I saw Vlad Jr had won, the first thing that popped into my head was letting Deb know- Vlad Sr was her favorite player for a very long time. Hadn’t had a “forgetting she’s gone” moment like that in quite a while. She loved her Angels.
Vlad Jr wins and injures a kid
https://www.marca.com/en/mlb/2023/07/11/64acce3bca474183198b45b2.html
Good morning to all on All Star Tuesday. I always bet on the American League, so on my pad at my desk I have 11 dollars bet today with Grandkids and 5 of which is with my son, got to be careful here, I might lose the house 😀
I pulled for JR. to win the HR Derby and he did, kool stuff. I thought that the Derby was a lot fun to watch. I don’t know how they can swing the lumber time after time without their arms falling off.
Hope you have a great day and see ya later at game time. 😃