Is Shohei Ohtani Being Forced to Hit Despite a UCL Tear?

The baseball world waits with bated breath every time Shohei Ohtani makes his way on the diamond. The two-way phenom has been tearing up the league with his performances and has amazed audiences and players alike with his showing. However, the actual extent of the star’s capabilities has yet to be proven through free agency. Nonetheless, this situation could transform in the near future.

The 3x All-Star made his way to the MLB in 2018 with the Los Angeles Angels and has not looked back since. Performing in both defense and offense for the Angels, the 29-Year-Old has truly taken the definition of a two-way player into stratospheric territory. But the star’s future is still uncertain. Many have succumbed to the injury big and with a workload exceeding any other in baseball, could the star be next?

Did Shohei Ohtani Play Even Through An Injury?

As the LA Angels took on the New York Mets at Citi Field, most expected the 2021 AL MVP to be omitted from the roster. The 29-year-old was reportedly out with an ulnar collateral ligament tear in his right elbow and many expected him to give the opening game of the series a miss.

But ever the model professional, the 2018 Rookie of the Year refused to sit out any time for the injury. He was instead on the team sheet as a designated hitter for the Angels taking on countryman Kodai Senga for bragging rights.

The LA Angels are in hot pursuit of postseason contention. With the team lined up to make a run at the Wild Card Spots in the AL, Japan-based star knows how crucial his presence is to the team. Especially in the absence of fellow hitter and Angels tandem partner Mike Trout.

Do the LA Angels Appreciate Him Enough?

The LA Angels are definitely aware of the star’s contribution to their franchise. Playing through the pain for the sake of the team, the superstar truly showed himself to be the ultimate team man. Phil Nevin, the manager of the LA Angels, added, “I think it’s just a testament to him and who he is and what he’s meant to not only our team and the clubhouse, to myself, to this game.” However, all the appreciation could be well set up to turn to disappointment this off season.

With Shohei ready to test the waters of free agency, teams, fans and front offices across the league will be vying for his signature. Potentially adding to the team’s offensive and defensive offerings at the same time, a signing like the former Silver Slugger award winner could be just the missing piece that several teams across the league need.

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Remaining mum about his commitments after the season is done, Shohei has refused to say anything, preferring instead to concentrate on the task at hand. And while the destination remains in question, one thing is certain: Shohei Ohtani will definitely land a monster contract this off-season.

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