As September unfolds, Shohei Ohtani is on the verge of making history each time he steps up to the plate or reaches base. Following a four-game series against the Diamondbacks, Ohtani boasts an impressive tally of 44 home runs and 46 stolen bases this season, placing him as the only player in the exclusive 43-43 and 44-44 Clubs, with the potential to reach 45-45 or even 50-50 as the season progresses with over 20 games still remaining.
Ohtani appears to have regained his form against the Diamondbacks, delivering a standout performance with five hits, two home runs, and four stolen bases after a disappointing August where he struggled with a .235 batting average. According to FanGraphs, he is on track for 50 home runs and 51 stolen bases by the end of the season.
Now just one home run away from his 45th, Ohtani and the Dodgers are set to return to Anaheim, where he previously played before his departure in free agency. The Angels have had a tumultuous season in the AL West, currently holding a worse record than the struggling Athletics, which provides an ideal opportunity for Ohtani to accomplish his 45-45 milestone.
In anticipation of his return to Anaheim, Ohtani was questioned by Jack Harris of the LA Times about his free agency. He responded with his characteristic diplomacy but noted, “Other teams, including the Dodgers, evaluated me highly. […] I wasn’t made an offer [by the Angels], so I can’t say [if I’d still be an Angel].”
As Ohtani prepares for his return, he revealed insights regarding his free agency that are likely to resonate with disappointed Angels fans. He suggested that while other teams showed interest, it seemed the Angels did not. His tenure with the Angels spanned six seasons, during which the team failed to reach the postseason and did not capitalize on the talents of both Ohtani and Mike Trout.
It is known that Angels owner Arte Moreno had the opportunity to match the Dodgers’ $700 million offer to Ohtani but chose not to. Reports indicate that the Angels have no plans to honor Ohtani during his return to Angel Stadium, emphasizing the sentiment surrounding his departure.
For Ohtani, hitting that 45th home run in front of a crowd of Angels fans—some of whom now view him unfavorably for joining the rival Dodgers—would be particularly sweet. Following a convincing series win against a superior team, the Dodgers, with Ohtani at the forefront, appear to be positioned to further highlight the divide between them and the struggling Angels.