The Angels enter the 2023 season at an inflection point. Their owner, Arte Moreno, abruptly reversed course this offseason, backing out on his previous decision to sell the team and now opting to retain ownership. That has altered the franchise’s course, particularly in regards to the future of its biggest star: Shohei Ohtani.
The two-way sensation and 2021 American League MVP is entering his final season under contract with the team. With Angels players reporting for spring training on Wednesday, Ohtani was a popular topic of conversation—including with fellow superstar Mike Trout.
Trout, a three-time MVP who’s entering his 13th year with the Angels, was asked about Ohtani’s contract situation, and didn’t hide his preference for what kind of outcome he hopes for.