When Randal Grichuk was traded to the Angels last year as part of a series of veteran acquisitions during a pivotal trade deadline, he quickly discerned the key goal for the team. While the Angels aimed to clinch a playoff spot, hoping to overcome a three-game deficit in the wild card race to make their first postseason appearance since 2014, the signings primarily revolved around Shohei Ohtani. The organization wanted to demonstrate to the Japanese star, who would soon be a free agent, that Anaheim was a viable option for competing for championships.
“They were trying to prove to him that they’re willing to do what it takes to be a successful organization and reach the postseason,” recalled Grichuk, who is now an outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, he added with disappointment, “Obviously, it just didn’t work out.”
Over the past year, much has transformed since that time. The Angels fell out of playoff contention dramatically last fall, enduring a seven-game losing streak in early August that dashed their playoff aspirations. Soon after, Ohtani was sidelined for the remainder of the season due to injuries, with his last game played on September 3, 2023.
As this date marks its first anniversary, Ohtani will return to Anaheim on Tuesday night for his initial regular-season game at Angel Stadium as a visiting player. He will lead the Los Angeles Dodgers into a two-game Freeway Series, riding high on a postseason momentum that he never experienced during his time with the Angels. The Dodgers recently solidified their division lead after winning three of four games against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Ohtani, currently pursuing an MLB milestone, boasts an impressive 44 home runs and 46 stolen bases, putting him in striking distance of becoming the first player to achieve a 50-50 season.
“Up to this point, I’ve never been in such a good position in September,” Ohtani expressed on Monday. He also noted the excitement of competing against a divisional rival during such a critical stage in the season.
Ohtani’s decision to leave the Angels as a free agent seemed inevitable, given his expressed desire to win championships. Despite the individual success he experienced, persistent injury issues and the team’s struggles to surround him with a competitive roster prevented him from reaching his goals.
There was considerable speculation when Ohtani was a free agent regarding his interest in re-signing with the Angels, the team he joined when he arrived from Japan. He flourished there as a groundbreaking two-way player, having won the MVP award in 2021 and again in 2023. However, when he steps onto the field in Dodger blue on Tuesday, it will come as a result of a decision that has left many fans of the Angels unhappy.
Reports indicated that the Angels did not match Ohtani’s $700 million proposal made through his representatives when he entered free agency, raising many questions about their commitment to keeping their star player. When asked about the Angels’ decision not to offer him the kind of contract he sought, Ohtani remained diplomatic, focusing instead on his current situation with the Dodgers and their aspirations for a World Series title.
Despite Ohtani’s success in Anaheim, his departure has left many lingering questions for Angels fans and former teammates. As the game approaches, there’s an anticipation that Ohtani will receive a warm reception from the fans, despite the discontent aimed at the team’s ownership.
Memories of the team’s struggles last year still resonate, with many wondering if a stronger push toward the postseason might have changed Ohtani’s mind about staying in Anaheim. Nonetheless, the Angels’ decision not to back Ohtani with a substantial offer during free agency ultimately paved the way for his significant role with the Dodgers.
Now, as he prepares for his return to Angel Stadium, Ohtani aims to deliver his best performance on a field where he first made his name, although this time it will be as a member of the rival team.