Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani is set to be a free agent following the 2023 season. He is one of MLB’s biggest stars with many teams interested in signing him. This makes it difficult for the Angels to retain their two-way phenom, with more attractive proposals likely to be available. But a recent update has given fans some hope.

There has been a lot of speculation surrounding the Angels’ owner Arte Moreno and his stance on Ohtani. Most recently, he broke a 3-year silence with reporters and answered some questions about the team. Moreno even gave fans clarity and new hope on Ohtani’s impending free agency. 

Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno intends to spend whatever is needed to sign Shohei Ohtani

For the first time in years, Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno spoke to local reporters. One of the topics that came up was the free agency of Shohei Ohtani. While speaking to The Athletic’s Sam Bum, he opened up about retaining the Japanese two-way sensation and what it’d cost. Moreno said that he would be willing to go into the luxury tax to keep Ohtani on a long-term deal. 

According to The Athletic, Moreno said, “Yes, I am. We really positioned ourselves well. Other than Mike and Rendon. And after four years for Rendon, we really have no long-term contracts. So we have to position ourselves and work to put ourselves in a position to have that financial flexibility.” This is huge for Angels fans. 

Read More: “Understatement of the Year”: Los Angeles Angels’ $4.1 Billion Worth Owner Riles Fans Up With His Shohei Ohtani Ambition

Moreno has been very quiet about the team’s goals and aspirations in the past years, but this is a huge step. Many expect Ohtani to be given a $500 million contract, which will be a massive investment for any team to make. But there are other teams that are favorites. The Angels have not made the postseason since 2014 and that may deter Ohtani from signing with them long-term.

Who are the early favorites to sign Ohtani?

With Shohei Ohtani set for free agency after this season, a few teams have emerged as favorites to sign him. Among these teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets are the frontrunners. Both of them have the money and are in good positions talent-wise.

Watch This Story: Japanese Two-Way Baseball Star Shohei Ohtani Hits 100th Major League Homer

It will be interesting to see if the Angels emerge as a new favorite following team owner Arte Moreno’s comments. What do you think of the fact that Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno is willing to enter the luxury tax to keep Shohei Ohtani? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.