Shohei Ohtani’s recent injury has sent shockwaves through the baseball world. With a tear in the UCL of his pitching elbow, Ohtani’s future as a two-way player is uncertain. As a free agent in just a few months, the injury raises questions about his market value and potential destinations.
Ohtani has yet to speak publicly about the injury, but history suggests that he will do everything in his power to continue both pitching and hitting. Despite undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2018, Ohtani rehabbed and went on to achieve unprecedented success in Major League Baseball. He expressed his desire to continue both roles, stating that he wants to explore the possibility of pitching once again.
However, another injury and the potential for another surgery could complicate matters. But given Ohtani’s track record, it is difficult to imagine him not defying expectations once again.
The injury also raises concerns about Ohtani’s market value as a free agent. Even if he can only contribute as a hitter, Ohtani would still be highly sought after. With his impressive offensive output, he could command a massive payday. Some experts believe he could be worth $500 million as a hitter alone. While the injury could give the Angels hope of retaining Ohtani, it is unlikely to deter big spenders like the Mets or Dodgers.
That being said, it may make sense for Ohtani to consider signing a shorter-term contract to re-establish clarity in his future. This would be a risk, as he would be on the other side of 30 and there would be no certainty regarding his ability to pitch in the future. However, it could give him a fresher arm in the long run.
There are also questions surrounding the Angels’ decision to allow Ohtani to pitch despite his recent arm fatigue. The team believed he wouldn’t have been able to pitch with a torn UCL, but his last start showed signs that something was wrong. Ohtani’s autonomy in everything he does may have played a role in the decision, as the Angels trusted his judgment.
Overall, there is still much to learn about Ohtani’s injury and its implications. The coming months will provide more answers, but for now, the baseball world can only hope for a full recovery and the possibility of witnessing Ohtani continue to defy expectations.