Edit Reading

Back to List

Basic Information

Title

Please enter a title.

URL

Please enter a valid URL.

Date

カテゴリID

画像ファイル名

統計情報

単語数: 757語

読了回数: 0回

作成日: 2024/09/04 15:42

更新日: 2025/12/08 10:54

本文

Angels Make Surprising Decision About Shohei Ohtani’s Return to Angel Stadium with Dodgers
Shane Shoemaker
As Shohei Ohtani prepares to return to Angel Stadium for the first time as a visitor as part of the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night, the atmosphere is bound to be charged with emotion.

For six years, Ohtani dazzled fans and broke records while wearing the Los Angeles Angels' uniform, establishing himself as one of the most extraordinary talents the game of baseball has ever seen. His remarkable dual-threat performance both as a pitcher and a hitter cemented his legacy in Angels history, making his return a significant moment. However, there are mixed signals from the Angels organization on how they plan to handle the return of their former superstar.

So far, the Angels have no plans to officially recognize Ohtani's contributions to the team when he steps back onto the field, according to Sam Blum of The Athletic. A spokesperson for the Angels stated on Monday that there is currently no tribute planned for Ohtani’s return, though there is a slight chance that the organization could change its stance before game time.

Sep 2, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; The details of the jersey of Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) during the ninth inning of the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
© joe camporeale-usa today sports

Ohtani’s departure from the Angels following the 2023 season was a dramatic one. After becoming a free agent, he signed a jaw-dropping 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers, crossing over to the rival side of the same city. The decision left a sour taste for many Angels fans, especially when Ohtani’s immense talent and contributions were no longer part of their team’s future. The bitterness was palpable on opening night when Ohtani's face appeared on the Angel Stadium video board, and instead of cheers, a wave of boos filled the air.

But it’s essential to remember why things unfolded this way. According to The Athletic, it wasn't Ohtani who turned his back on the Angels; it was the organization that chose not to make a compelling offer to retain him. Angels owner Arte Moreno decided against pursuing Ohtani in free agency, despite his agent, Nez Balelo, stating the Angels had "every opportunity" to make a competitive offer. Couple that while also seeking a winning environment, plus the financial commitment the Dodgers offered and it was a no-brainer.

The Angels’ hesitation to honor Ohtani is even more striking given the current state of the franchise. At 57-80, the team is last in the AL West, well out of contention. They rank 16th in MLB attendance, averaging 30,861 fans per game, according to ESPN.

The energy that once filled Angel Stadium when Ohtani and Mike Trout shared the field is noticeably absent, particularly with Trout sidelined for the remainder of the season. Without any star power left to anchor the team, the Angels' decision to forgo celebrating their biggest former star feels like a missed opportunity to reconnect with what seems like an always disgruntled fanbase.

Meanwhile, Ohtani is thriving across town in Dodger blue, with the team currently holding the best record in baseball at 83-55. Despite not pitching or playing in the field due to his recovery from last season's UCL injury, he is having a historic season at the plate. Ohtani became the fastest player in MLB history to join the 40-40 club with 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases. As he stands at 44 home runs and 46 stolen bases, he is on the brink of making the unprecedented 50-50 club, a feat that would further solidify his status as one of baseball's all-time greats.

Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani (17) scores against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the eighth inning at Chase Field on Sept. 2, 2024, in Phoenix. Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Angels' decision to possibly ignore Ohtani’s contributions seems short-sighted. Whatever uniform he wears, Ohtani's impact on the Angels' history is undeniable, and his return deserves to be met with the applause and respect he earned over six unforgettable seasons.

The Angels have an opportunity to take the high road and offer a gesture that acknowledges not only Ohtani’s historic achievements but also the bittersweet circumstances of his departure. If they choose not to, it would be a disservice to the fans and the legacy of a player who left an indelible mark on the franchise.

本文を入力してください。

メモ

メモ・感想

キャンセル

Edit Reading

Basic Information

統計情報

本文

メモ

Send Report