Baseball’s Dual-Threat Star Shohei Ohtani Fuels Trade Speculation Following “Secret” Exchange With WBC Teammate

Shohei Ohtani might be leaving the Los Angeles Angels sooner than expected. Although fans have braced themselves for a possible free-agency departure, an early exit may happen. Speculations surrounding a potential mid-season trade have run rampant. But most recently, a conversation between the two-way phenom and his World Baseball Classic teammate restarted trade speculations. 

This comes when the Angels struggle, leading to no-entry in the postseason picture. Furthermore, fellow franchise star Mike Trout’s latest injury update leaves the team in limbo. Ohtani’s secret conversation with his Japanese compatriot leaves a trade scenario open. 

Kodai Senga’s secret conversation with Shohei Ohtani sparks trade speculation

Kodai Senga was selected as an All-Star to replace Chicago Cubs ace Marcus Stroman, who chose not to participate. During the All-Star weekend, Senga was seen deep in conversation with the WBC teammate Shohei Ohtani. Furthermore, the Mets’ All-Star’s response to what the conversation was about was even more speculation-inducing.

When asked what he discussed with Ohtani, he said it was a secret. SNY Mets shared a video of an interview with the All-Star pitcher. In the interview, Senga said, “Secret.” Moreover, when asked about playing with Ohtani in the future, he gave an honest answer pertaining to the latest circumstances.

He said, “I think it would be a lot of fun, but obviously we don’t know where I’m gonna be. We don’t know where he’s gonna be. So, if our paths cross, it would be great.” Like Ohtani, Senga also uses a translator for his conversations and interviews. 

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But this reopens a new dynamic to the two-way phenom’s future. Although it seems highly likely that the Angels will hold on to Ohtani and hope for a miracle run, a trade may still happen. It will be interesting to see how his near future unfolds with approximately half the season left.

Mets owner Steve Cohen has shown interest in Ohtani

On multiple occasions, Mets owner Steve Cohen has seemed interested in signing Shohei Ohtani. But earlier this year, during the World Baseball Classic, rumors intensified. Cohen traveled to Japan and was seen watching Ohtani play live during the WBC. This led to all kinds of speculation.

Some even called it a scouting trip for his upcoming free agency. Furthermore, the New York-based franchise has also emerged as one of the favorites for his signature over the year. But the two-way phenom’s mindset toward different teams currently needs to be discovered.

It will be interesting to see if Shohei Ohtani signs with the New York Mets. What do you think Ohtani said to Kodai Senga during their “secret” conversation? Share your views in the comments below.

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