On Monday, the agent for Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani, Nez Balelo, spoke to the media to address Ohtani’s injured elbow, and how the presumed favorite for American League MVP plans handle the eventual “procedure” the injury will require.
Although Balelo admitted that the three-time All-Star would need surgery, he stopped short of stating Ohtani would require a second Tommy John surgery on his injured elbow. Balelo also stated that Ohtani plans to play at DH throughout next season, and doesn’t believe a procedure would prohibit him from performing in that role.
Ohtani first injured his elbow during his rookie campaign in 2018. He continued to hit for the rest of the season, and was the Angels’ DH for all of ’19 during his recovery.
Shohei Ohtani’s agent, Nez Balelo, said he anticipates Shohei Ohtani needing a procedure. He wouldn’t say if it’s TJ.
— Sam Blum (@SamBlum3) September 4, 2023
He said Ohtani plans to DH throughout next season, and doesn’t believe a procedure would prohibit him from DHing.
The injury for Ohtani, who is headed for free agency, is a massive blow that could affect his eventual new contract. Balelo said that any surgery Ohtani gets this offseason would not impact his ability to hit in 2024.
Ohtani, 29, is batting .304 with 44 home runs and 95 RBIs this season, while posting a 10-4 record with a 3.14 ERA prior to being shut down from pitching last month. He’s remained in the Angels’ lineup at DH.
