Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels) eventually got sick.
On the 24th (Korean time), Ohtani started in the first game of the double header of the 2023 American Professional Baseball Major League home game against the Cincinnati Reds held at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, USA, but voluntarily gave up after 1.1 innings, complaining of arm fatigue.메이저놀이터
However, an examination revealed that it was a ligament injury in his right elbow.
As a result, Ohtani will not be able to play as a pitcher for the rest of the season. It is unclear whether Tommy John surgery will be performed. If he has surgery, he won’t be able to play as a hitter all season. Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018. At the time, Ohtani was injured during the season, but he continued to play as a batsman and underwent post-season surgery.
If he undergoes post-season Tommy John surgery, Ohtani may not be able to pitch next season. It is a bad news for Ohtani, who will become a free agent (FA) after this season.
EPSN recently reported that “Ohtani’s true value may be as high as $300 million as a hitter, $324 million as a pitcher, or $624 million total.” That’s far beyond the 12-year, $426.5 million contract Mike Trout signed with the Angels in 2019, and far exceeds the all-time high.
In addition, the Los Angeles Times predicted $600 million, The Athletic at $500 million to $600 million, and Spottrak at $528 million.
However, things may change if Ohtani undergoes surgery.
LA Times Di Giovanna pointed out on her social media, “There will be no team that will offer 500 million dollars to ‘Ilto-ryu'” and “If you get a second TJ surgery, the free agent effect will be great . “
In response, a Japanese media outlet was concerned, saying, “It is a somewhat exaggerated point in a situation where it has not been decided that he will not continue to play as a pitcher in the future, but it is certain that this injury will have a great impact on the new contract.”
He continued, “Can Ohtani really avoid the second TJ surgery? Fans have no choice but to hold their breath and wait.”