NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 29: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels looks on from the dugout before a game against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on June 29, 2021 in New York City. The Yankees defeated the Angels 11-5. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Angels said they’re not trading Shohei Ohtani this offseason, but he’ll still play for another team next year.
The two-way superstar announced that he’ll represent Japan in March’s World Baseball Classic.
Ohtani joining the WBC is huge news for Japan and the entire tournament, which gets a major boost by including the game’s most unique player.
“This tourney was already a must watch,” former MLB player Cody Decker wrote. “So fired up for this tournament!”
“Team Japan may have the best pitching staff in the WBC’s history now that Shohei Ohtani is in,” USA Today‘s Bob Nightengale said.
“Love this and love the WBC,” MLB Network’s Alanna Rizzo wrote.
Other fans could not contain their excitement about Ohtani’s decision.
Oh me finished fourth in the AL Cy Young Award voting after posting a 2.33 ERA and 219 strikeouts this season. The 2021 AL MVP will likely place second behind Aaron Judge on the 2022 ballot despite also batting .273/.356/.519 with 34 home runs.
With Ohtani on board, Japan landed its staff ace and lineup anchor. The 2006 and 2009 champions could enter 2023 as a frontrunner to earn another World Baseball Classic title.
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