MLB Rumors: 'Shotime' May Leave Angels If Losing Ways Are Not Addressed

Individually, there is no question that Shohei Ohtani has proven himself not only to the Los Angeles Angels but to the MLB.

He continues to wow baseball fans but knows that his efforts are nothing unless his team starts winning.

After seven dominant innings against the Seattle Mariners on Sunday, September 26, the 27-year-old pitcher may have just locked up the American League’s Most Valuable Player award, MLB.com reported.

However, that thought was bitter-sweet considering it was the Angels 82nd loss in 2021. To make matters worse, it means the team will be suffering its sixth consecutive losing season, ESPN reported.

For now, the Angels can breathe a sigh of relief with Ohtani still ineligible for free agency. That will last until the 2023 season.

But when quizzed on whether he would be slugging it out with the Angels on a long-term basis, his words may raise a sense of urgency to management.

"I really like the team," Ohtani said through his interpreter. "I love the fans, I love the atmosphere of the team, but more than that, I want to win. That's the biggest thing for me. I'll leave it at that."

The Japanese player also added that he has not discussed a possible extension with the Angels.

Regardless, those comments could be something that top management may want to work on as early as now.

There are several personalities within the Angels organization who have pointed out the need for the team to beef up. That includes Mike Trout, someone who has been out since May.

Angels manager Joe Maddon shared similar views, pointing out that actions need to be taken if the Angels are to perform better moving forward.

“We can't annually be in this position. This organization is better than that. We deserve better than that. We have to go out and earn it," Maddon stated.

On the part of Ohtani, hearing his frustrations and disappointments is to be expected.

"It's very frustrating, very disappointing," Ohtani said of missing out on the postseason. "I always look forward to being in the playoff race at the end and trying to talk about the playoffs with my teammates. I always think about it, so, yeah, it's been disappointing."