As Shohei Ohtani Weighs $500M Free Agency Options, Will the Astros Feature Highly on His List With Winning Taking Top Priority?

In the ongoing baseball saga surrounding Shohei Ohtani‘s impending free agency, opinions within the MLB community are sharply divided. While some MLB insiders still hope Ohtani would land the highly anticipated $500 million deal, others are concerned that the uncertainty surrounding his pitching career could potentially influence his market value. However, one thing that most of them are sure of is that the 21st century Babe Ruth won’t return to the Los Angeles Angels in 2024, choosing a different team with strong winning potential. In this list, who can be a higher priority than the World Series Champs, The Houston Astros?

While teams like The LA Dodgers and The New York Yankees are already in the race, some speculations are making their way to The Astros. The two-way phenom and the 2x World Series champions are logically compatible. While the former is a generational talent in baseball, the latter is known for their consistency throughout the season, making it a deadly combination. However, while there are more potential teams that still have the intention of signing the Japanese sensation, no one knows what Ohtani is pondering over.

Do the Houston Astros Feature on the List of Potential Destinations for Shohei Ohtani in Free Agency?

Ever since Ohtani joined the Angels, both the Japanese two-way player’s individual performance and the team’s overall success have taken a contrasting trajectory. The condition has now come to the extent that fans and media are exploring his opportunities with other teams. They have been trying to figure out the most suitable teams for his future career. When there are possibilities, there are speculations and rumors. These speculations mostly indicate the 21st-century Babe Ruth may join The Astros. While for now that’s only an assumption, it holds some validation.

The Japanese star is an ambitious player who set his aim to win The World Series. Since he joined the Angels, he has received multiple awards and reached milestones, except for the World Series trophy. During an interview a few months back, through his interpreter, the baseball star revealed, “It sucks to lose.” The translator also revealed that Ohtani wanted to win, so he could be stronger every year. With the Angels’ current situation, winning is a far-fetched dream.

On the other hand, The Astros have been performing incredibly in the last few years, including the two World Series Championship trophies in 2017 and 2022. This year, they have made a significant impact in the baseball world due to their exceptional roster and top-notch performances. They have not only faced off against some of the toughest teams but have also demonstrated their on-field prowess, as evidenced by their recent scores. Currently the team is 87-72, trailing second in the AL West.

As they say, ‘consistency wins the race’. The Dusty Baker-managed team are well-known for their consistency throughout the season which makes them one of the strongest contenders for affording such a lucrative contract of the 2021 AL MVP. Another thing that probably makes sense behind The Astros to be interested in the Angels’ star is that his potential is proven. Even though he won’t pitch until 2025, his versatility in hitting is also well-known. Perhaps the Houston-based team could be in a position to extend the contract he desires.

Will Shohei Ohtani’s Injury Come in the Way of His Highly-Anticipated Contract in the Free Agency?

Insiders and sources even claim that Ohtani’s free agency won’t be affected by his injury. As MLB insider Jon Heyman confirmed, the baseball superstar’s pitching career restriction twisted things temporarily, but it won’t have any negative effect in the long run. Shotime is bound to reach a new milestone by signing a $5oo million or above contract.

Watch the Story: Angelic Heartbreak – Shohei Ohtani’s Departure Leaves LA Angels Fans in Uncharted Disappointment

Considering both The Dodgers and The Astros have proven themselves as one of the best teams in their respective league, Ohtani may consider landing at either clubhouse. Only time will tell which team will be lucky enough to have the two-way phenom!

Read More: As Pitching Injury Impacts Upcoming $500 Million Free Agency, Will the Dodgers Sign Shohei Ohtani?