“He’s Just Venting”: Los Angeles Angels Manager Assures Shohei Ohtani is Not Going Anywhere

Sending shock waves across the MLB community, fan-favorite, Shohei Ohtani, recently made headlines for his comments about his future. The Los Angeles Angels star is the front runner in the race for this season’s Most Valuable Player award. However, the all-rounder is beyond disappointed, with his side’s current losing streak.

Even with one of the most decorated baseball players in their squad, Ohtani and his team are on the verge of missing out on the post-season play. Frustrated with the circumstance, Ohtani expressed his love for the Los Angeles Angels but reiterated that nothing is more important than winning.

Notably, this led to fans making a common assumption that Shohei wants out of the team. However, Los Angeles Angels manager, Joe Maddon, cleared the air and discarded all the rumors about his star player wanting to leave.

Shohei Ohtani talked about winning, not leaving

Shohei Ohtani lost his patience when Los Angeles Angels lost their home finals to Seattle Mariners with 5-1 at the weekend. Ohtani has done everything in his capacity, often leading the charge from the front. But disheartened with yet another defeat, he hinted at a possible departure.

Sep 25, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) sits in the dugout before being introduced during a pregame awards ceremony at Angel Stadium. Ohtani was given the team MVP and Nick Adenhart Awards before a game against the Seattle Mariners. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

In the post-match interview, he asserted on the point that he loves the Angels, but winning is his priority. Notably, this gave rise to rumors over the player’s future. However, the team’s manager, Joe Maddon, has now claimed that everyone misread the whole situation.

Joe said, “We all want to win. If anybody misconstrues [Ohtani’s comments] as though he wants to leave, that’s trying to connect some dots that are not at all what he said. He was just addressing the fact that he wants to win. I think he also mentioned how much he loves it here … He’s just venting and saying everything we’re all thinking and wanting.”

Los Angeles Angels manager has faith in his team

After facing these consecutive losses, not just Ohtani, but the whole team wants to better their position. Speaking of the same, Joe said “We all want to get to the next level. And we see it as an absolute, not just a possibility — it’s going to happen here in the very near future.”

Los Angeles Angels have 74 wins and 83 losses, this season. As things stand, Shohei Ohtani’s future with the Angels looks uncertain. If he was to leave, what colors do you think he should don next, taking his legacy to greater heights?

Read more: “I Want to Win”: Shohei Ohtani Frustrated With Los Angeles Angels Losing