Fan sentiments towards Shohei Ohtani, as suggested by a former player
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In a career spanning from 2018 to 2023, Shohei Ohtani's tenure with the Los Angeles Angels was marked by numerous accomplishments and significant impact on the team.
Accomplishments
Ohtani's impressive resume includes winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2018 and his first AL MVP award in 2021, with a third AL MVP award coming in 2023. He made history in a two-game span from June 21-22, 2022, by having at least eight RBIs in a game and then striking out at least 10 batters the next day, a feat never before achieved in the American or National League.
Ohtani's performances often turned the tide of games, as seen when he hit a go-ahead two-run home run and pitched seven strong innings to end the Angels' 14-game losing streak in 2023.
Impact on the Team
While the Angels' record during Ohtani's tenure was 333-383 (.465 winning percentage), his presence significantly elevated the team's performance and profile. Ohtani's exceptional abilities as a two-way player drew attention and excitement to the team, though the Angels' overall success was limited during his time there.
Ohtani, as a Japanese player, helped increase the global appeal of baseball, bringing in fans from around the world interested in watching him play.
Legacy with the Angels
Despite his incredible individual achievements, the Angels during Ohtani's tenure did not achieve significant team success, such as advancing to the playoffs. However, his impact on the game and the team's profile remains substantial.
After the 2023 season, Ohtani signed a 10-year, $700 million contract to defect to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Notable Facts
- Angels players have taken home five MVP Awards in the last 15 years, with Ohtani securing three of them.
- Fans have only been able to celebrate individual accomplishments over the last decade and a half with the Angels, as the team is currently on pace for their 10th straight losing season.
- The Angels are on the outside looking in at the playoff picture, while Ohtani is once again right in the thick of the postseason hunt with the Dodgers.
- The Los Angeles Angels have one playoff appearance in the last 15 years, and have zero postseason wins since 2009.
- Shohei Ohtani's homecoming was spoiled by the Angels who swept the Dodgers in the Freeway Series.
- Trevor Plouffe, via Chris Rose Sports, stated that Angels fans should not feel animosity towards Ohtani, and that they should love him because he chose the Angels and had some nice seasons with the team.
- Mike Trout, a teammate of Ohtani, also won three MVP Awards.
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