Los Angeles Angels Star Shohei Ohtani’s Season Cut Short Due to Oblique Irritation and UCL Tear
Los Angeles Angels’ star player Shohei Ohtani will unfortunately be missing the remainder of the 2023 season due to an ongoing oblique irritation and a previous UCL tear. The news was confirmed after Ohtani underwent an MRI on Friday, which revealed the extent of the oblique strain. As a result, the decision was made to shut him down for the rest of the year.
Initially, the team believed that Ohtani’s oblique injury was just a minor setback. However, the fact that he has been absent for the past 11 games, combined with his cleared-out locker at Angel Stadium, has sparked speculation about a potential shutdown. The exact details of Ohtani’s upcoming elbow procedure have not been disclosed by general manager Perry Minasian, but he did mention that Ohtani is eager to undergo the procedure quickly in order to be ready for the 2024 season.
This early end to the season could also provide Ohtani with an opportunity to address his torn UCL sooner rather than later. His agent has previously stated that some form of procedure is inevitable. While the specific type of procedure is still unclear, any elbow repair typically requires a recovery period.
Ohtani’s impending free agency adds another layer of uncertainty to the situation. Prior to his injury issues, he was expected to command a significant contract in the offseason. Despite these concerns, Ohtani’s exceptional performance on the field, showcasing his remarkable two-way abilities, makes him an attractive target for many teams.
The question remains whether Ohtani will re-sign with the Angels or opt to join another club. The direction of the team and their recent string of losing seasons may influence his decision. Nonetheless, Ohtani still has a chance to win his second American League Most Valuable Player (AL MVP) award, as he currently leads the league in various categories and is considered a frontrunner for the prestigious accolade.
Ohtani’s final game before the shutdown was a disappointing 10-6 loss to the Athletics, where he had a below-average performance. With only 15 games left in the season, contenders will find it challenging to catch up to Ohtani’s impressive statistics. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Angels as they strive to finish the season on a high note.
Overall, the news of Ohtani’s season-ending injury is a significant blow to both the Angels and his fans. The coming months will be crucial for his recovery and decision-making process, as the baseball world eagerly awaits his return to the field.
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