TEMPE (Ariz.) — Nothing like what baseball had ever seen. Shohei OhtaniHis first AL MVP-nominated season as a unanimous player in more than 100 years. The new season arrived quickly for his. Los Angeles AngelsOhtani is excited to explore more history.
Ohtani spoke Tuesday through an interpreter at the Angels spring training complex, saying that “I feel like it’s not possible to be doing the same things as last year” and that he can’t have the same stats this year. “I need to keep improving and get better, so that is the plan.”
In 2021, Ohtani’s stats are incredible: A 9-2 record with a 2.18 ERA and 156 strikeouts in 130 innings of work and a.965 OPS (46 homers and 100 RBI) at the plate.
Ohtani is still not satisfied despite the most spectacular two-way season since Babe Ruth’s heyday.
Ohtani indicated that “Obviously, there are skills to improve,” “But, physically, I feel stronger than last year so I believe we are on a good track.”
Ohtani is determined to improve in all areas and hopes that this will lead to more success for the franchise, which has not had a winning season since 2003 when he moved here. He feels that the offseason training he has been following is still good, even though he hasn’t made any significant improvements to it.
Ohtani stated that “nothing is going to change” for anyone who has had a good year. “I believe the key is to continue to be successful for many more years. My team is in a great place as long as they can achieve that.
Joe Maddon, Angels manager, sees one area in which Ohtani could expand his game. He has no complaints about last year.
Maddon stated that it was hard to believe that he would do more this season than he did last. “I will take a repeat performance and maybe add a few more innings to my repertoire as a pitcher. But he’s an entirely different animal. He is a kind man and a very good player of baseball.
Ohtani had 23 starts in the Angels’ six man rotation last season, and that number isn’t likely to increase by more than a few starts. Los Angeles added to its offseason starting rotation with the additions Noah Syndergaard Michael LorenzenHowever, the Angels still trust Ohtani to succeed on the mound.
Ohtani hopes this year to improve his control, especially early in the season. Although Maddon hasn’t confirmed it, it seems like he will be the Angels’ Opening Day pitcher on April 7, but he is expected to do so.
Ohtani stated that although there is a part in me that wants to open Opening Day, it’s not the main thing I am thinking about. “Regardless of whether I’m pitching or hitting on Opening Day, I just want to get off the ground running.”
Maddon met Tuesday morning with Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara, an interpreter, to renew their relationship. Maddon feels he has a system in place for Ohtani, Mizuhara and he plans to continue the constant dialogue this season. He will pay particular attention to Ohtani’s legs as any weakness could result in overcompensation elsewhere.
Actually, Ohtani’s biggest hurdle in Ohtani’s offseason may have been when the baseball owners imposed their strike. Mizuhara had no choice but to resign as an Angels staffer or he wouldn’t be able to keep up daily contact with Ohtani.
Mizuhara, who was born in Japan, attended college in Los Angeles and has been Ohtani’s right-hand person since their time as Nippon-Ham Fighters. Mizuhara was immediately hired by the Angels after the lockout.
Ohtani’s future with the Angels in the long-term is uncertain. Although he is still under team control until next season, he doesn’t seem interested in discussing potential contract extensions during that season.
Ohtani noted that “there’s a really positive vibe in the clubhouse right at the moment.” “All of the new guys seem to be great guys. I am excited to play for this team. I think we have a good chance of making it to the playoffs if everyone stays healthy.
Ohtani is likely a key reason that the Angels will end their seven-year playoff drought. Ohtani also hopes to make a bigger contribution: The Angels are eager for baseball to alter the rules to allow Ohtani to continue playing as a designated hitter even after he is removed as a pitcher.
Maddon stated, “I hope it happens.” “And the American League West is wishing it doesn’t,” Maddon said.