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Angels Sign Shohei Ohtani

By Steve Adams | December 8, 2017 at 1:05pm CDT

Shohei Ohtani has decided to sign with the Angels, agent Nez Balelo of CAA Baseball announced today. Balelo issued the following statement on his client’s decision:

Shohei Ohtani | Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images)

“This morning, after a thorough, detailed process, Shohei Ohtani has decided to sign with the Los Angeles Angels. Shohei is humbled and flattered by all the time and effort that so many teams put into their presentations and sincerely thanks them for their professionalism. In the end, he felt a strong connection with the Angels and believes they can best help him reach his goals in Major League Baseball.

I want to thank the clubs and everyone else for respecting our intent to make this very important process as private as possible. We were resolved to having a fair, methodical process. Teams clearly put in a lot of work, and we are grateful for that. The past few weeks also further demonstrated Shohei’s incredible thoughtfulness, attention to detail and determination to make an informed decision. He read every page of every presentation and listened to every word in each meeting, and he was so impressed that it was not an easy choice. While there has been much speculation about what would drive Shohei’s decision, what mattered to him most wasn’t market size, time zone or league but that he felt a true bond with the Angels. He sees this as the best environment to develop and reach the next level and attain his career goals. More than ever, I believe this is not only a special talent but a man of special character, and like everyone else I’m excited to see him in Major League Baseball.”

The Angels were one of seven finalists for Ohtani, joined in that regard by the Mariners, Rangers, Cubs, Padres, Dodgers and Giants. At various points in recent days, there’s been speculation about the perceived favorites to secure his rights, but few pegged the Halos as any sort of favorite to acquire his services.

The Angels can offer a signing bonus of $2.315MM, which is about $1MM less than the Rangers or Mariners could’ve offered but $2MM greater than what any of the NL clubs were able to pay. They’ll also be on the hook for a $20MM posting fee that will go to Ohtani’s former team, the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball.

Because of his age, the 23-year-old Ohtani is considered an amateur under Major League Baseball’s collective bargaining agreement, meaning that his actual contract will be a straight minor league deal that comes with a league-minimum salary of $545K in the Majors. Like any other player, he’ll be eligible for arbitration after three years of Major League service and will qualify as a free agent after si years of service in the Majors.

Ohtani will jump to the front of an Angels rotation that includes Garrett Richards and Matt Shoemaker, with names like Parker Bridwell, Tyler Skaggs, Andrew Heaney and Nick Tropeano among the contenders for the remaining spots. Given that Ohtani is used to pitching only once per week and was limited to five starts by an ankle and leg injury in 2017, the Angels would seem a good candidate to pitch with a six-man rotation. (That’d also help to manage the innings of Richards, Skaggs, Heaney and Tropeano — each of whom has had elbow issues in the past two years.) For all of his merits — a career 2.52 ERA with 10.3 K/9 and 3.4 BB/9 in 543 NPB innings — Ohtani has never pitched more than 160 2/3 innings in a season.

Shohei Ohtani | Photo by Sports Nippon/Getty Images

How the Angels will work him into the mix at the plate remains to be seen, but the signing could push the Angels to give Albert Pujols more time at first base than many would’ve expected. The Angels’ outfield is full with Justin Upton, Mike Trout and Kole Calhoun, leaving designated hitter as the most obvious spot for Ohtani, a career .286/.358/.500 hitter in 1170 NPB plate appearances, to receive any sort of regular plate appearances.

Ohtani’s addition to the Angels is a transformative move for a franchise that was in contention for a Wild Card spot up until the final week of the 2017 season despite a cavalcade of injuries on their pitching staff. With Ohtani and a full year of Upton now on hand, the Angels will enter the 2018 campaign in considerably better position than they did this past season, and that’s before even considering the fact that they’re still widely expected to make an upgrade at second base.

While there’s some skepticism that Ohtani can serve as an above-average bat on a regular basis, there’s little doubt among scouts that he’s a legitimate front-of-the-rotation arm, as MLBTR’s Chuck Wasserstrom wrote in a detailed scouting report after speaking with five high-ranking international scouting officials from MLB clubs earlier this year. The Angels, who already have deep pockets and vast spending capacity, are in many ways winning the lottery by acquiring an MLB-ready pitcher of that caliber whom they can pay at a league-minimum rate (or close to it) for the next three seasons. That luxury should allow them to spend more aggressively on other areas of need.

There’s been an enormous amount of speculation about whether the team that ultimately signs Ohtani would negotiate some type of early extension for him to compensate for his limited earning potential, though Major League Baseball has made clear to teams that it won’t stand for any circumvention of the international bonus structure by signing Ohtani to a precedent-breaking contract early in his career. As MLBTR’s Tim Dierkes examined recently, that may not mean that Ohtani is forbidden from signing any type of extension, but a contract would likely have to fall under the guise of recent precedent as pertains to other players in his service class.

Clearly, based on the fact that Ohtani even requested to be posted this offseason, money isn’t his primary motivation in coming to the Majors, however. The need for a lengthy contract extension for Ohtani is ever less glaring in light of recent reports that he could earn in excess of $20MM annually via marketing and endorsement deals both in the United States and in Japan. Assuming he lives up to the hype, it would still eventually behoove the Halos to try to keep Ohtani around longer than his initial six years of control, though his lack of financial motivation in his initial foray into free agency could push that desire several years down the road. Presumably, commissioner Rob Manfred has some degree of statute of limitations in mind as to when a team could initiate extension talks without raising red flags or concerns about a preconceived deal.

Even with Ohtani on board, the Angels still face an uphill battle in the American League West, where the reigning World Series Champion Astros trounced the division and closed out the year with a 21-game lead. There’s little doubt that Ohtani will help to bridge that gap, but GM Billy Eppler and his staff will nonetheless still have work to do despite the coup of adding perhaps the most intriguing player on the planet to a team that also happens to include the the consensus best player on the planet over the past half-decade (Trout).

As for the other six teams that are left wanting, they’ll now shift to various Plan Bs and Cs as they deal with the disappointment of coming so close to a scenario they’ve envisioned for the past five years, when Ohtani was drawing MLB interest as a high schooler in Japan. The Mariners and Rangers each have more than $3.5MM worth of international funding that they can spend as a result of their pursuits to acquire Ohtani — money that’ll now be reinvested into the farm system (either via directly signing players or trading those allotments for young players). Teams like the Cubs and Giants, each with only clear spot to fill in the rotation, will now look to other means of filling that void — both in trades and free agency.

The most fascinating free-agent pursuit in recent memory has come to a close with the Angels standing on top, and we’ll now all wait for one of the most anticipated debuts in Major League history.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images.

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Los Angeles Angels Newsstand Transactions Shohei Ohtani

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413 Comments

  1. mlb1225

    8 years ago

    Not too surprised, but I thought The Padres, and Mariners had a better chance.

    1
    Reply
    • theroyal19

      8 years ago

      I’m not too surprised. I thought it was between the Angels, Mariners, and Padres. But I thought the Padres might have the edge

      2
      Reply
      • davidcoonce74

        8 years ago

        I don’t think Ohtani can play the field so that ruled out the Padres.

        Reply
        • Ry.the.Stunner

          8 years ago

          He played OF in Japan.

          1
          Reply
        • Sox

          8 years ago

          Only for a total of 62 games in 2013-2014 when he was 18 and 19

          Reply
        • davidcoonce74

          8 years ago

          He hasn’t played the outfield in years

          Reply
        • theroyal19

          8 years ago

          Padres have Ohtani’s former strength coach along with Nomo on staff

          1
          Reply
      • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

        8 years ago

        Padres never had a chance. He had them on the list becuase they are a call team. No other reason.

        Reply
        • wrigleywannabe

          8 years ago

          Riiiiiiiiiight, he listed and spoke with a team that had no chance, just for kicks…..idiot

          1
          Reply
        • JKB 2

          8 years ago

          Yea sure genius thats why Oakland was on the list as well. Wait they were not!

          Only a moron would say what you did

          Reply
        • GeoKaplan

          8 years ago

          Actually, that’s probably a correct statement.

          It was said early on that some of the meetings were out of respect for those who would be attending. Preller’s front office is full of folks who have been important to Ohtani, so this may well have been the “courtesy” visit mentioned. Respect is important.

          So the comment “idiot” would be both rude and ill-informed.

          Reply
    • Kayrall

      8 years ago

      “It’s okay. He’s going to flop anyways.” – Yankees Fans

      42
      Reply
      • kiwimlbfan

        8 years ago

        Yeah, na. You need to grow up, some fans like baseball and aren’t all children.

        1
        Reply
      • Adam6710

        8 years ago

        “It’s OK, he’s going to flop anyways.” -Mariners Fans.

        14
        Reply
        • 24TheKid

          8 years ago

          Haven’t seen one Mariner fan say that.

          5
          Reply
        • chrisduncanfan

          8 years ago

          You’ve seen a Mariners fan? Where?

          1
          Reply
        • chaneyb

          8 years ago

          Mariners fan here, totally wanted Ohtani, and totally hate the Angels. I’ve heard some friends saying they hope he ends up getting Tommy John or the like, but I’m not in that camp. I hope Ohtani is as advertised, as the dynamic duo he could form with Trout would just be a thing to behold. Of course, when I’m done admiring them and their athletic abilities at the end of the day, I would hope that their team has lost. The division just got more interesting, and that’s always good.

          Reply
        • gene95988

          8 years ago

          Finally, an honest, non-warped hatefilled poor looser, regardless of team affiliation.

          Reply
        • bygarry

          8 years ago

          loser not looser!

          Reply
      • Sheep8

        8 years ago

        Hahahahaha

        2
        Reply
      • Kolukonu

        8 years ago

        Not even close. Been a die-hard Yankees fan since I was 5, so going on 23 years now. Not all Yankee fans are unrealistic or jerks. There are those of us out there that understand baseball is a business.

        Hopefully Ohtani will help turn the Angels franchise around. They have the big names but have struggled recently. With adding Maitan and now Ohtani, that definitely helps bolster their weak farm system. It’d be nice to see Trout and Pujols get into the playoffs.

        1
        Reply
        • Joe Kerr

          8 years ago

          Well said except that Ohtani will not help their weak farm system, he will go directly to Anaheim.

          2
          Reply
        • J leathal86

          8 years ago

          Trout and Pujols were in the playoffs and got swept by the royals I know because I’m a orioles fan and they then proceeded to sweep us lol

          3
          Reply
        • JoshBoman2001

          8 years ago

          That was a good year for Kansas City, I love KC and it was fun watching us sweep both of you guys lol

          Reply
        • larry48

          8 years ago

          Angel will suck with or without Ontani. I don’t expect angel to make playoff for at least 5 yr. will be lucky to pay 500 baseball.Houston , Mariner and texas will be a better team than Angels.

          Reply
        • yournemesislol

          8 years ago

          They’ll be wildcard. They actually did better than expected last year (although they got cold at the end of the season) a full year of Upton and the signing of Ohtani will be good for them.

          Reply
        • JKB 2

          8 years ago

          Actually until he loses rookie status he will be considered in the prospect lists and minor league rankings

          Reply
      • xabial

        8 years ago

        “Angels GM came from Yankees”

        I trust Billy Eppler.

        -This Yankee fan

        3
        Reply
      • Slipknot37

        8 years ago

        Hell I’m already seeing some mariners fans hoping his elbow blows out or hope he’s a bust. Funny how some people are when a certain player doesn’t want to sign with their team in the end

        Reply
        • Joe Kerr

          8 years ago

          Yeah, its unreal. Where are all the people who said Mariners, book it!

          1
          Reply
        • antsmith7

          8 years ago

          I would never wish anyone injury. I was really hoping he would sign with us, so I do feel a little jilted. But oh well.

          6
          Reply
        • NL_East_Rivalry

          8 years ago

          In some rare cases it’s the same people possibly being hopeful then in turn being spiteful.

          Most of the time it’s just the optimistic ones don’t respond after they lose out and the pessimistic ones become more audible.

          Reply
        • fox471 Dave

          8 years ago

          Uh, I was one who thought the Mariners were a shoo-in. Really didn’t see the Angels as a factor in the process.

          1
          Reply
      • mlb1225

        8 years ago

        I don’t think I’ve seen a more upvoted comment on this site.

        1
        Reply
    • greatdaysports

      8 years ago

      Padres…Seattle?!? Not with those two idiot gm’s.

      1
      Reply
    • Cardinals17

      8 years ago

      I am surprised!!!

      Reply
    • Show all 35 replies
  2. bronxbombers

    8 years ago

    Glad he went to the angels honestly

    1
    Reply
    • Adam6710

      8 years ago

      As a Yankee fan, after he took my favorite team out of the running and narrowed it down to those seven, I was rooting for the Padres, because I like an underdog (weird, right?).

      8
      Reply
      • Ry.the.Stunner

        8 years ago

        Not really weird. I think that’s human nature in general. When my dog’s out of the fight, I also root for the underdog. Most people are sick of the same handful of teams making all the big moves.

        1
        Reply
        • Mattimeo09

          8 years ago

          So you understand why a lot of people root against teams like the Yankees, Dodgers and Cubs right?

          Reply
  3. bush5104

    8 years ago

    Wowww. The dark horse wins out!!

    1
    Reply
  4. casey

    8 years ago

    Thank you for doing this quickly.

    6
    Reply
  5. wintwins11

    8 years ago

    Well that escalated quickly

    3
    Reply
  6. walls17

    8 years ago

    Damn it San Diego I ask you to do one thing

    1
    Reply
  7. august34

    8 years ago

    Wtf

    Reply
  8. angryangel02

    8 years ago

    Yesssss!!!

    1
    Reply
  9. artiefufkin

    8 years ago

    In Eppler we trust!

    6
    Reply
    • J. C. Hahne

      8 years ago

      Eppler is a stud!!!

      Reply
    • angelsws2020

      8 years ago

      Man I hope so

      Reply
  10. august34

    8 years ago

    Why

    Reply
  11. Jbigz12

    8 years ago

    Dipoto’s see Gordon trading looking even more suspect.

    2
    Reply
    • JerryDipoto

      8 years ago

      Hey now that’s rude

      2
      Reply
    • BuddyBoy

      8 years ago

      They still needed a leadoff guy and outfielder. They have a ton of money to spend on the international market with a lot of talent still out there. Just have to refocus onto established ML pitching….they have the $$ to add a legit upper tier guy.

      4
      Reply
      • macstruts

        8 years ago

        The Angels don’t need an outfielder… Are you crazy? Upton/Trout and Calhoun are just fine.. A lot of teams would love to have Calhoun.

        They need a second baseman, and their staff to stay healthy. But adding a 23 year old pitcher and a part time DH is sure going to help.

        They are head and shoulders the second best team in that division.

        Reply
        • EndinStealth

          8 years ago

          Psssstttt he was talking about the Mariners.

          10
          Reply
        • Mark Z

          8 years ago

          you’re an idiot, he meant Seattle……dunce

          Reply
      • Jbigz12

        8 years ago

        They’re moving a 2b to centerfield while paying him well to do so. I think he had otani in mind for this trade as well.

        Reply
    • Geebs

      8 years ago

      I don’t see how the 2 are connected other then the extra int $$$ they got

      Reply
    • terry g

      8 years ago

      I don’t see that related at all

      Reply
      • Jbigz12

        8 years ago

        A serious contender for Shohei otani beefs their international money up prior to him signing. If you don’t think that had some influence that’s your opinion. Mine is that it definitely did.

        2
        Reply
        • whereslou

          8 years ago

          Macstruts the only thing you got right on your post its Seattle is the 2nd best team in the Div. With Ohtani and a couple more pieces and staying healthy they could give the Astros a run for their money. The proof is easy we used a record number of pitchers and still almost made the WC.

          While I am bummed we didn’t get Ohtani and even more bummed he went to a Div rival I would never wish him harm. I might wish him to suck the days he faces us but never because of an injury.

          1
          Reply
        • 24TheKid

          8 years ago

          I agree with everything you just said.

          Reply
  12. Slipknot37

    8 years ago

    As long as it’s not the giants or Dodgers, I’m happy. Has angels ever had a Japanese player though? Tells you he doesn’t care for money like mariners thought

    Reply
    • artiefufkin

      8 years ago

      Hideki Matsui in 2010, some relievers here and there are the only ones that come to my mind.

      Reply
    • Bart

      8 years ago

      Shigetoshi Hasagawa

      3
      Reply
      • angelsfan1391

        8 years ago

        Get shiggy with it

        Reply
    • jgb2412

      8 years ago

      Hideki Matsui signed with them, but he built his legacy with the Yankees before going to Anaheim!

      Reply
    • BuddyBoy

      8 years ago

      The Angels acquired an additional $1M in bonus pool money as well…just saying

      3
      Reply
      • Slipknot37

        8 years ago

        Good point. Forgot about that.

        Reply
    • nutbunnies

      8 years ago

      If money were #1 on his list he’d be a Yankee

      Reply
      • Slipknot37

        8 years ago

        Na. If money were number one, he would’ve waited 2 years

        9
        Reply
      • smith_matd

        8 years ago

        Not true. That’s not international signings like this work, Mr. NutBunnies

        Reply
        • Torontopoly

          8 years ago

          That’s exactly how they work. He would have come in as a Major League level free agent instead of a mandatory minor league contract..

          Reply
      • Ry.the.Stunner

        8 years ago

        Nope. If money were #1 on his list, he’d be staying in Japan for a few more years.

        2
        Reply
    • macstruts

      8 years ago

      Yes… Shigatosi Hasegawa and Hideki Matsui. Forgive the spelling.

      Reply
  13. bronxbombers

    8 years ago

    Glad he went with the angels would love to see trout in playoffs

    5
    Reply
    • leftyspecialist

      8 years ago

      Same

      2
      Reply
  14. angryangel02

    8 years ago

    No way

    1
    Reply
  15. csm1106

    8 years ago

    Yes!

    1
    Reply
  16. failedstate

    8 years ago

    Glad that one is over.

    4
    Reply
  17. Jubilee3333

    8 years ago

    Wow this was shocking. The Angels?

    2
    Reply
    • jgb2412

      8 years ago

      Why is it so shocking? They have a FO that is working hard! The best Player in the game! The greatest hitter in this generation!

      Reply
      • stymeedone

        8 years ago

        I was surprised because his opportunity to hit seems limited with a full OF and Pujols at DH. Never expected them to move Pujols back to the field.

        Reply
  18. PirateWAR

    8 years ago

    Didn’t see this coming

    Reply
  19. mlb1225

    8 years ago

    I know he’s they might not want to do this because of his bad ankle, but will this signing put Pujols at 1B more often?

    Reply
    • lanceparrish

      8 years ago

      Why not play Otani at first? Saves his arm. Keeps Pujols at DH.

      3
      Reply
      • mlb1225

        8 years ago

        Yea, that’s true.

        Reply
  20. andrewgauldin

    8 years ago

    HELL YA. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. AND GOODBYE TO ALL YOU YANKEES AND MARINERS FANS

    Reply
    • Bart

      8 years ago

      Lets try to show that Angels fans have some class.

      7
      Reply
    • kiwimlbfan

      8 years ago

      Grow up

      3
      Reply
  21. oceangate316

    8 years ago

    F yeah! Lets make some more moves, Halos!

    Reply
    • tedbow00

      8 years ago

      Yeah, like maybe a contract extension to Pujols!

      2
      Reply
      • mlb fan

        8 years ago

        @tedbowoo…..that was some serious gallows humor but It did make me laugh…..

        1
        Reply
      • oceangate316

        8 years ago

        no

        Reply
    • PhanaticDuck26

      8 years ago

      Bridwell for Hernandez straight up?

      Reply
  22. TheChanceyColborn

    8 years ago

    Ok so can the giants now please get Stanton. If we miss on both, it probably doesn’t bode well for the coming season.

    Reply
    • tattooed trash

      8 years ago

      We need to kiss on both because neither would have been good for SF.

      Reply
      • tattooed trash

        8 years ago

        Miss not kiss

        Reply
        • casey

          8 years ago

          How would Ohtani not been good for SF?

          3
          Reply
      • pustule bosey

        8 years ago

        you can argue that stanton is taking on too much risk but there is no reason ohtani wouldn’t be good – even if he tanks he isn’t expensive.

        Reply
        • Joe Kerr

          8 years ago

          I just read an article that someone leaked who he would approve a trade to. It says Stanton would only approve a deal to go to the Yankees, Cubs, Astros and Dodgers. That is apparently what the delay is about. If one of those teams don’t step up and make a good enough offer, he will be on the Marlins (unless he changes his mind) and the Marlins will have to trade others like Yelich and Ozuna and if they find a sucker to take on Prado in order to dump money.

          2
          Reply
        • aknott1

          8 years ago

          Yeah, they mentioned that article on this site last night.

          Reply
        • baines03

          8 years ago

          there’s the $20 million posting fee.

          Reply
        • Ry.the.Stunner

          8 years ago

          That’s still not a lot in the grand scheme of things.

          :League Minimum + Signing Bonus (less than $3.5M) + $20M posting fee = 6 years of control

          1
          Reply
      • walkitoff

        8 years ago

        That’s one of the more absurd claims anyone can make: the NL MVP and the #1 prospect in baseball aren’t good for the Giants. Who are talented players good for then? Teams in the Korean League?

        Reply
    • Jonathan B.

      8 years ago

      Being the Giants doesn’t bode well anyways, no matter who you get.

      2
      Reply
    • Joe Kerr

      8 years ago

      Not necessarily, if they were willing to take on $250 million, they could conceivably keep their prospects they were going to trade, and sign many players to fill in the holes, for instance something along the lines of Lorenzo Cain, Todd Frazier or Moustakas, and a good pitcher to add to the rotation, either Arrieta, Cobb or Lynn. and some bullpen help. Maybe forget targeting a starter and get multiple top flight relievers. Guessing you could get at least 3 of these guys who obviously help their specific needs for the same money they would’ve taken on with Stanton.

      Reply
      • stymeedone

        8 years ago

        The dollars are enough for that, but convincing the first player in that group that they will be successful doing it among competition will be a virtual impossibility. I’d be happy to be the third or fourth guy to join, but wary of being the first.

        Reply
    • larry48

      8 years ago

      Stanton has said no to Giants and Cardinals will go Dodgers Astros, cubs and Yankees only

      Reply
      • wrigleywannabe

        8 years ago

        I a not that high on Stanton because of the opt out capability and his injury history. I would love to have Yelich.

        That said, if you are willing to move Heyward to CF, I would make a run at him, just to test it out.

        I would low ball, of course. I’d start with Baez and Almora and see what they say.

        Reply
  23. shoheiohtahnyy

    8 years ago

    Wow there it is. Good luck, kid. Help Mike Fish get back in the postseason this year.

    4
    Reply
  24. halos101

    8 years ago

    I am PUMPED. Enjoy that dipoto! LETS GOOOOOOOO

    3
    Reply
    • JerryDipoto

      8 years ago

      I will when he struggles

      4
      Reply
      • halofan20

        8 years ago

        Lol zing

        Reply
      • outinleftfield

        8 years ago

        You mean you will from the unemployment line?

        3
        Reply
        • Stevil

          8 years ago

          From the postseason, when Angels fans are scratching their heads trying to figure out how everything went wrong!

          1
          Reply
        • The-Two-Germanys

          3 years ago

          Prescient, Stevil.

          Reply
      • sportsfan101

        8 years ago

        In the kelso voice “burn” halos101

        1
        Reply
    • walkitoff

      8 years ago

      ^ lol

      Reply
  25. chound

    8 years ago

    I’m surprised but not overly surprised. Seemed like a two team race to me (And NOT SD!) and he went to one of the two…

    Reply
  26. Eric D.

    8 years ago

    Omg

    Reply
  27. sufferforsnakes

    8 years ago

    I knew it!

    Reply
  28. halos and quacks

    8 years ago

    Angels are gonna be sneaky good! This was a good move for ohtani. The angels kind of seemed to fit on all his check marks. A lot of money but a smaller market where the media attention is lower, a decent team that he can help bring to the next level, west coast, Asian populations. This is exciting as an angels fan

    3
    Reply
    • Jonathan B.

      8 years ago

      Oh, you are an Angels fan, that explains why you think they are a smaller market. Smaller than what? Yankees? Yes, I guess in that aspect of it you are right.

      1
      Reply
      • reflect

        8 years ago

        Anaheim actually is a pretty small market.

        4
        Reply
      • halos and quacks

        8 years ago

        Well it’s not LA or NY media attention. The angels have a big market and draw in 3 million fans every season but they don’t get much attention

        2
        Reply
        • Kslaw

          8 years ago

          I agree. Even with having Trout on the team they get the West Coast treatment.

          1
          Reply
      • antibelt

        8 years ago

        That commemt made me laugh too. LA small market? Lol

        2
        Reply
      • agentx

        8 years ago

        Believe it or not, Orange County plays like its own small market here in Southern California.

        On the coast between Malibu and Manhattan Beach, it’s often easier to get what had been the Padres radio home AM 1090 out of Baja California than it is to receive the ESPN affiliate in Orange County that broadcasts Angels games.

        Little to nothing about the Angels is ever discussed on either the Fox Sports or ESPN affiliates based in LA, and you’d be hard pressed to find many people within 200 miles of either Dodger Stadium or Angels Stadium over 30 miles away who consider Anaheim or the Angels a Los Angeles team.

        Moreno’s deftly named Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim really do play in a market closer in size to that of the Padres than the Dodgers’ and perhaps even the Giants’ markets.

        3
        Reply
        • timm-2

          8 years ago

          Something tells me the Angels will be discussed more on those stations now.

          1
          Reply
        • GeoKaplan

          8 years ago

          You’re not keeping up with current events at all. The “of Anaheim” was dropped two years ago.

          The “200 miles” crack tells me you have no regard for the millions of folks who live in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, who are as much a part of the fan mix in the stadium as locals from LA county and OC.

          Add in the fact the Angel games on FSW are seen by more viewers in LA county than Dodger games, and your analysis gets even more threadbare.

          1
          Reply
    • dejota

      8 years ago

      Lol they still need pitching. Oh yeah they also play the Astros a ton. Also they dont know how to build the farm only sell it. Based on just that I dont think Ohtani is making a very smart choice or he doesnt care mucb about winning anytime soon.

      3
      Reply
      • Jonathan B.

        8 years ago

        I have a feeling Ohtani’s agent had a side deal with Disney for free lifetime passes. So he told Ohtani, hey, everyone is backing out, guess you will need to sign with the Angels. DEVIL GRIN

        Reply
        • halofan20

          8 years ago

          Yeah Disney does not own or have anything to do with the Angels my guy

          Reply
        • #LCDad

          8 years ago

          So Disney sold the Angels 14 years ago…..

          Reply
      • halos and quacks

        8 years ago

        Eppler is building it

        1
        Reply
    • thetruth 2

      8 years ago

      Really bad move for him. The OF is stacked and Pujols is the DH, so where are the AB’s coming from? Pujols playing 1B at this point in his career? The Angels have a really bad pitching staff for a playoff team and a weak farm, he’s also overshadowed by Trout, who might leave in 2 years while the team is still stuck with Pujols. He would’ve been better off going to the Cubs.

      1
      Reply
      • glassml

        8 years ago

        Great signing but yikes, an overweight Pujols at first? Bad plan.

        1
        Reply
        • Ellite25

          8 years ago

          I just read yesterday that Pujols has dropped a bunch of weight.

          Reply
        • bosoxforlife

          8 years ago

          He needs a new pair of feet.

          Reply
    • bastros88

      8 years ago

      The Angels could sign God, they still aren’t winning the division. Maybe a wild card

      1
      Reply
  29. AngelsBaseball1313

    8 years ago

    Angels!!!!!!!!! I thought for sure he was going to Seattle.

    Reply
  30. justacubsfan

    8 years ago

    Glad he went there if not cubbies. Trout deserves better! Now, Stanton could speed this up!

    1
    Reply
  31. Jonathan B.

    8 years ago

    Why the Angels??? I mean, other than Ohtani, they have no starting pitching. Guess he was being honest when he said he didn’t care about winning. hahahahaahha. Good luck there, going nowhere.

    1
    Reply
    • halos and quacks

      8 years ago

      They actually have a lot of pitching and talent. The only thing is health. They have Richards, Skaggs, Heaney, bridwell, Ramirez, tropeano. They managed to win 80 games last year with a pitching staff full of injuries

      3
      Reply
      • Dark1150

        8 years ago

        lol “a lot of pitching talent” good joke.

        3
        Reply
      • thetruth 2

        8 years ago

        All of them are bottom of the rotation starters except for Richards who can’t stay healthy. Skaggs (4.56 FIP in 2017), Bridwell (4.84 FIP in 2017), J.C. Ramírez (4.81 FIP), Tropeano (5.27 FIP), Heaney (9.11 FIP in 2017). None of these guys are aces. Even Richards is questionable as an ace.

        4
        Reply
      • halofan20

        8 years ago

        Preach

        Reply
      • bastros88

        8 years ago

        The talent ends with Richards, everyone else you mentioned has no talent, and if they did, it’s not like they can stay healthy

        1
        Reply
  32. IloveMACfootball

    8 years ago

    Doesn’t he know they have the worst manager in baseball?

    2
    Reply
    • WeggieJackson44

      8 years ago

      When did they get Dave Roberts???

      2
      Reply
  33. brucewayne

    8 years ago

    Now they ONLY need 4 more starters

    2
    Reply
    • brucewayne

      8 years ago

      and a whole bullpen and 3B

      Reply
      • brucewayne

        8 years ago

        and a 2B and a 1B !

        2
        Reply
        • bastros88

          8 years ago

          and a couple of bench pieces and a new manager

          1
          Reply
  34. Solaris601

    8 years ago

    First the Yankees were considered a sure thing, then the Giants, then everybody said SD made the most sense, and then it seemed all but a foregone conclusion he was headed to SEA. Congrats Angels. Xmas came early.

    2
    Reply
  35. Thronson5

    8 years ago

    I had a feeling he would go there. I thought for sure Angels or Mariners but I was leaning Angels. Good got them

    Reply
  36. em650r

    8 years ago

    Disneyland tickets for a lifetime was the Key

    5
    Reply
    • bastros88

      8 years ago

      he could have just waited for the winter meetings and went to Disney world hahaha

      1
      Reply
  37. WhiteboyTommy

    8 years ago

    I smell a BUST!

    1
    Reply
    • xscalabr

      8 years ago

      Lol bitter Yankees fan

      Reply
  38. woolcorp

    8 years ago

    Jon Daniels had been preparing for this for YEARS! What a failure he is!

    1
    Reply
    • glassml

      8 years ago

      Hater….

      Reply
  39. SundownDevil

    8 years ago

    FINALLY….. Mike Trout will play on a winning team!

    2
    Reply
    • Jonathan B.

      8 years ago

      Is he being traded away from the Angels?? I must have missed this.

      5
      Reply
      • tdaly

        8 years ago

        Hehehe

        Reply
    • ldfanatic

      8 years ago

      Angels are still bad.

      3
      Reply
      • xscalabr

        8 years ago

        Bitter

        1
        Reply
    • connolly26

      8 years ago

      until you realize Ohtani is the next Kei Igawa

      1
      Reply
      • Joe Kerr

        8 years ago

        You sound bitter

        5
        Reply
    • SundownDevil

      8 years ago

      I think they’ll go all in. Since Stanton wants to play in Los Angeles, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Arte go after him too. Stanton was a 1B in high school, so he would have the opportunity to team up with TROUT in L.A.

      1
      Reply
    • thetruth 2

      8 years ago

      He’s going to the Astros?

      Reply
  40. skrockij89

    8 years ago

    The real loser is Dipoto. Dude focused on too much on money but I guess he can spend that additional money on other players.

    Reply
    • sufferforsnakes

      8 years ago

      Ohtani was probably worried Dipoto would trade him.

      2
      Reply
      • GrandSlammy

        8 years ago

        Slow clap.

        Reply
  41. MB923

    8 years ago

    Wow, 50+ comments on here in 3 minutes.

    Congrats Angels fans.

    7
    Reply
    • jacobywankenobi 2

      8 years ago

      Gotta love that “Oh he’s a yankees fan, have a downvote” guy.

      1
      Reply
      • MB923

        8 years ago

        Lol

        2
        Reply
  42. Modified_6

    8 years ago

    Wow. I hate that he’ll be in the AL West without Texas across his chest, but I love that so many people talked so much trash the last few weeks as if they had knowledge that the rest of the world didn’t and he ended up where he did. I didn’t see this coming.

    Reply
  43. TwinsHomer

    8 years ago

    Wow congrats to the angels. Big win for that organization.

    Reply
  44. jd396

    8 years ago

    Why does this feel so anticlimactic?

    2
    Reply
  45. eelektrik

    8 years ago

    Nice. I figured it was down to the Angels and Mariners and it went the way I hoped.

    Reply
  46. ldfanatic

    8 years ago

    Angels Will still finish last in the West.

    4
    Reply
    • WeggieJackson44

      8 years ago

      Bitter much?!?!
      They didn’t even finish last this year but go ahead and enjoy the sour grapes

      1
      Reply
    • xscalabr

      8 years ago

      No

      Reply
  47. MB923

    8 years ago

    Mariner fans the other day – “Yessssss. So happy you ditched NY. Can’t wait to see you in Seattle”

    Mariner fans today – weknowmemes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/homer-s…

    4
    Reply
  48. angryangel02

    8 years ago

    Now the angels trade for Kinsler and sign Frazier to platoon with Valbuena. Team set.

    1
    Reply
    • dejota

      8 years ago

      Pitching and or defense?

      1
      Reply
    • Solaris601

      8 years ago

      But where does Ohtani play when he’s not pitching? The OF is set unless they plan on trading Calhoun. Pujols is the full time DH. First base maybe?

      1
      Reply
      • pustule bosey

        8 years ago

        DH?

        Reply
      • J. C. Hahne

        8 years ago

        Word is that Pujols will try to play some first. He’s shedding some pounds. Gonna be in the best shape of his life! Or maybe he will need a breather from DHing….

        Reply
    • jorleeduf

      8 years ago

      Well they still need pitching

      1
      Reply
    • sportsfan101

      8 years ago

      Kinsler and sign mous this move proves there all in before trout can leave. Angels fans expect a crazy winter

      Reply
  49. JerryDipoto

    8 years ago

    I’m really bummed as a Mariners GM. I thought I had him, but he said something was fishy with Seattle

    8
    Reply
  50. driftcat28 2

    8 years ago

    I’m pretty surprised tbh, now let’s see what he’s got

    Reply
  51. notorious623

    8 years ago

    I’m glad Ohtani made his decision so the off-season can finally get going. Sounds like the Angels are a good fit considering what Ohtani was looking for. Having said that, while this will almost for sure make the Angels a better team, it’s hard to envision it doing much more than getting them a potential WC spot… I don’t see any team in the AL West challenging the Astros for the division.

    2
    Reply
    • timm-2

      8 years ago

      Interesting to see what they do now.

      Arrieta? Darvish? Moustakas? They have to go for it now.

      2
      Reply
  52. timm-2

    8 years ago

    Good for Otani … Good for the Angels … Good for baseball

    That wasn’t sarcasm

    I guess the winter meetings …. unofficially … start now

    2
    Reply
  53. chri

    8 years ago

    Is Seattle going to now spend all that international money to sign all those ex-Braves prospects?

    And Ohtani will get booed in Seattle his entire career now.

    3
    Reply
    • revolu888

      8 years ago

      Oh please, just because Mariners became a late probable destination? What the hell did Ohtani besides pick a team he wanted play for

      3
      Reply
    • macstruts

      8 years ago

      Not a chance he gets booed in Seattle. The cheers of the Japanese fans will be many, loud and long, .

      4
      Reply
    • SundownDevil

      8 years ago

      Seattle fans are pretty passive bandwagoners. I don’t think they’ll care all that much.

      2
      Reply
      • whereslou

        8 years ago

        Bandwagon fans? Usually they jump on a winning team what has Seattle won? They have had a pretty steady attendance record over the years. Your comment is stupid with no validity.

        Seattle won’t boo Ohtani because he chose another team. They only player that really ever got booed for a long time was Aroid because he lied when he left. He said he was not leaving for the money but for a better team. The Rangers sucked with him there and Seattle got better when he left. He left for the money. If he would have been honest he would not have been booed as much.

        3
        Reply
        • 24TheKid

          8 years ago

          Well said.

          Reply
    • NuckBobFutting

      8 years ago

      Didn’t the Angels get 2 of the Braves’ prospects? I know Maitan agreed, but not sure who the other was

      1
      Reply
      • WeggieJackson44

        8 years ago

        Livan Soto

        Reply
    • pustule bosey

      8 years ago

      it isn’t a bad idea, that is for sure.

      Reply
    • mlb fan

      8 years ago

      @chri…..I have been to Seattle many times and they will not be booing Ohtani, because he did not do anything wrong by choosing the team of HIS choice…..Seattle fans are not that petty…..

      3
      Reply
    • Stevil

      8 years ago

      Jelfry Marte, whose contract was voided by the Twins, should be on their radar after coughing up Torres for IBP dough.

      Reply
  54. revolu888

    8 years ago

    I wonder if the sum of the argument for angels was you’ll be teammates with the best player in the world,

    3
    Reply
    • jleve618

      8 years ago

      That’s what I would have said.

      2
      Reply
      • Weather Report of Atlanta

        8 years ago

        Having trout as a teammate and mentor? That adds a heavy amount of weight for sure. Interesting take.

        1
        Reply
  55. mack22 2

    8 years ago

    Angels still have to get by Houston,
    Good luck with that

    2
    Reply
  56. JohnnyMcStickySubstance

    8 years ago

    #SanDiegoSportsCurse

    Reply
    • sithdude

      8 years ago

      #MAGA … Make Angels Great Again!!!

      Reply
  57. halofan20

    8 years ago

    Noooooooooooooooooooooooo

    1
    Reply
  58. gosox77

    8 years ago

    He’ll do OK but not great.

    Reply
    • xscalabr

      8 years ago

      Salty because your team didn’t sign him?

      Reply
  59. macstruts

    8 years ago

    I wrote on here the other day that he was going to the Ms or the Angels. Even though I wrote that, I thought it was going to be the Ms. and I’m mildly surprised.

    Great news for Angel fans. GREAT GREAT NEWS.

    1
    Reply
  60. sufferforsnakes

    8 years ago

    Yep, I’m going to Spring Training next year.

    1
    Reply
  61. marinersblue96

    8 years ago

    Bummer.

    1
    Reply
  62. quicsilver

    8 years ago

    Wow, good for him and the angels. As a Yankee fan, hope he shines and does great in MLB.

    3
    Reply
  63. Buddy “Bud” Hull

    8 years ago

    Damn! Congrats Angels fans, you got us Mariners good here. Can’t really argue with a team that has Mike Trout on it.

    4
    Reply
  64. jorleeduf

    8 years ago

    WOW! TROUT, UPTON, SIMMONS, PUJOLS, CALHOUN, MALDONADO, AND NOW OHTANI! That’s one hell of a team for a club that refused to rebuild!

    3
    Reply
    • revolu888

      8 years ago

      you should probably leave Pujols off that vaulted list of yours sadly

      3
      Reply
    • Padres2019ha

      8 years ago

      Yes, but where’s the pitching? Should sign Darvish

      Reply
  65. jacobywankenobi 2

    8 years ago

    Congrats Angels fans! He should be fun as heck to watch. Sucks for the M’s, they gave up a prospect from a really shallow farm for bonus pool money and didn’t end up with their man.

    2
    Reply
    • Joe Kerr

      8 years ago

      A couple of them. They still have the money to spend on the IFA though so it could still work out for them.

      Reply
  66. BalcoBomber

    8 years ago

    I hope the first time he faces the A’s he gets knocked out in the first inning. Spurn us will ya? Oh well, congrats Angles. He should be fun to watch. I really thought it would of been San Diego and then SF.

    Reply
  67. Segovia3047

    8 years ago

    Please Angels be guilty of Tampering of some sort!

    Reply
  68. outinleftfield

    8 years ago

    So when does DiPoto lose his job? Will they wait until this is finalized?

    2
    Reply
    • terry g

      8 years ago

      Why should he lose his job?

      Reply
    • Joe Kerr

      8 years ago

      He is trying to trade for him as we speak 😉

      Reply
  69. brood550

    8 years ago

    Ok, and the Stros are still the AL West favorite. But good for them.

    Reply
  70. Ken M.

    8 years ago

    Scouts still believe Ohtani will sign with NY. -Joel Sherman

    14
    Reply
    • MB923

      8 years ago

      Haha, you get a +1 from me Death.

      5
      Reply
    • agentx

      8 years ago

      Yeah, that about sums up Joel Sherman.

      1
      Reply
  71. TheIncident

    8 years ago

    He’s dead to me now! Oh well. I’d rather him be on the Angels than the Yankees, Dodgers, Red Sox, Giants, or Cubs.

    2
    Reply
    • baseballpun

      8 years ago

      At least he’s going some place where he can’t hurt anybody.

      Reply
  72. chase hayes

    8 years ago

    I also think Dipoto focused too much on the money. Bummed he won’t be a Mariner. Hopefully we can use all that international money on some good prospects Dipoto will trade next year.

    3
    Reply
  73. jeffmaz

    8 years ago

    Ohtani was going to an AL team because of the DL. NL teams didn’t stand a chance including my Padres.

    1
    Reply
    • brood550

      8 years ago

      I thought that. But found it weird that 4 NL teams and only 3 AL teams made the final list.

      Reply
  74. prf999

    8 years ago

    Devastated…good luck Ohtani, I hope you have a great career (except against us Mariners) and thanks for keeping us in the running

    Reply
  75. Dutch Vander Linde

    8 years ago

    Can we start the offseason now!!?

    1
    Reply
  76. jkinser20

    8 years ago

    My guess is that jerry dipoto will now enter a psycho-depressive state and binge on trading 80% of his roster to cope.

    1
    Reply
  77. Sportsguy98

    8 years ago

    Curious how long his deal will be. Angels still have a lot of money on the books.

    Reply
    • ilikebaseball 2

      8 years ago

      Its a minor league contract. The Angels will have 6 years of control, just like any other player they would get in the June draft that came up in their system.

      1
      Reply
  78. Adam6710

    8 years ago

    As a Yankee fan, I hope he sucks against the Yankees and blows away the rest of the league, wins the Cy Young, and that the Angels fail to make the playoffs.

    1
    Reply
    • revolu888

      8 years ago

      This is the best take

      though as jays fan I hope he destroys the Yankees as well,

      but does mediocre against the Jays for whatever magical reason.

      1
      Reply
  79. pustule bosey

    8 years ago

    He just signed with the Angels so he can walk to Disneyland.

    1
    Reply
  80. slowcurve

    8 years ago

    I feel like Ohtani weight is now off my shoulders. Let the stove heat up!

    Reply
  81. charles stevens

    8 years ago

    Fml

    Reply
  82. vlad4hof

    8 years ago

    A west coast AL team whoda thunk it…maybe thats the reason he wasnt written up daily in Philly

    Reply
  83. stretch123

    8 years ago

    Solid!! Now watch the Angels go and trade for Stanton now lol.

    Reply
  84. Frank kemble

    8 years ago

    Congratulations Angels. From a Phillies fan and true baseball fan. Good luck against Houston. ..and Seattle.. And Texas..and Oakland lol I think his rookie year will be impressive but I think they need more pitching and infielders now to make it a competstive team for him. congrats

    Reply
  85. madmanTX

    8 years ago

    Wow, I guess Arte Moreno blinked in Morse code that he’d open his bank vault to Ohtani when the time comes for his new contract. That, and Ohtani must be expecting to become a Hollywood actor or something.

    Reply
  86. AndThisGameBelongsToMySanDiegoPadres

    8 years ago

    Well I did call him not going to the Padres but I expected it to be the Mariners. FWIW he’s ultimately gonna have to choose between hitting or pitching.

    1
    Reply
    • Padres2019ha

      8 years ago

      You’re so smart

      Reply
  87. Dotnet22

    8 years ago

    Come on Stanton. Make a decision. This guy is coming from Japan. You’re moving from Miami. Get it done.

    1
    Reply
    • NuckBobFutting

      8 years ago

      Nothing will get done, he doesn’t want to go to the Giants, or Cards

      1
      Reply
  88. ABCD

    8 years ago

    Great job, Angels!

    Good job, Cubs! Didn’t expect you to make it to the finals.

    1
    Reply
    • bastros88

      8 years ago

      what exactly is a “final”? you mean world series?

      Reply
      • ABCD

        8 years ago

        No, the final 7 teams that presented to Ohtani in person.

        Reply
  89. Stevil

    8 years ago

    As a Mariners fan, of course I’m disappointed, but full props are in order for Eppler here. He did a great job finding a way to give LA a much-needed boost, not just with Ohtani, but with netting Maitan as well. They still have to address 2B and find a little more pitching, but obviously this helps a lot.

    It will be fun to see how he integrates into MLB. I’ve always loved watching Mike Trout despite being on a rival team. It’s about the game first, teams second.

    Anyway, congrats to all the Angels fans out there.

    5
    Reply
    • agentx

      8 years ago

      Great post, Stevil. I’m not a fan of either team specifically but agree that Ohtani joining Trout will make the AL West and your rivalry more fun to watch.

      3
      Reply
  90. terry g

    8 years ago

    I had a hunch he’d agree before the winter meetings and before Stanton. He’s done his research on these teams.
    Good luck to him. I hope he does well.

    Reply
  91. tigerdoc616

    8 years ago

    WOW. Given the moves the Mariners made to increase their international pool money, thought they would end up with him. But not always about money. Should be interesting to see how he does and whether or not he can be a true 2 way player.

    Reply
  92. WildKnights

    8 years ago

    So where is that dolt that kept saying “Padres, BOOK IT”………..

    Reply
  93. fs54

    8 years ago

    Any chance they sign Yu now? Sweet move by Angels. Wish him, Trout, and Angels best for next season.

    Reply
  94. lowtalker1

    8 years ago

    That’s bs
    Fk this guy

    1
    Reply
  95. keepinthafaithsd1

    8 years ago

    Damn I thought my pads were gonna take him. Oh well tho sucks for him tho that team is going to blow the next couple years with that farm system…

    Reply
    • WeggieJackson44

      8 years ago

      You’re right…no MiLB titles for the Angels for the next few years!!!

      Reply
    • xscalabr

      8 years ago

      Just like the pads with their terrible GM

      Reply
  96. timm-2

    8 years ago

    Betances for Otani?

    juuuuuuuuuuuuust kidding

    1
    Reply
  97. nstale

    8 years ago

    Hideo Nomo in the streets, Kaz Matsui in the sheets.

    2
    Reply
  98. davidcoonce74

    8 years ago

    Boy, if there’s a manager worse-suited to handle Ohtani than Mike Scoscia I don’t know who it is.

    2
    Reply
  99. lmmthomas

    8 years ago

    The great almighty Theo struck out. LOL

    Reply
    • brood550

      8 years ago

      That’s fine. They’ll just sign Cobb. No biggie. Trout is gone after 2020 anyway and the Angels still have a -2.0WAR 27 million lead weight DH. That team is about a bad as the Royals with a larger payroll. Best of luck to them all but eventually the well runs dry. Checkout the Yankees and their desire to be under the cap.

      1
      Reply
  100. PatricksGotYou

    8 years ago

    I’m happy he signed to the Angels. The mariners fans that said they would rather him go anywhere but New York look like idiots now. Congrats now you face an ace a lot more times a year.

    1
    Reply
  101. AlvaroEspinoza 2

    8 years ago

    The world was his oyster and he went with the Orange County Angels – why?

    1
    Reply
    • Robertowannabe

      8 years ago

      Why not?? For a couple of years he can learn the US game and how to pitch against MLB players. If he is what he is cracked up to be, he will get a huge pay increase in arbitration and the watch bidding war in 6 years when he hits FA at age 29

      Reply
    • lovethegame27

      8 years ago

      Because you got the best player in the game on the Angels bud.. oh and Cali is a great place to be!

      Reply
  102. lowtalker1

    8 years ago

    At least San Diego has a future
    Anaheim not so much

    1
    Reply
    • brood550

      8 years ago

      Anaheim’s prospect cupboard is bare. Their only asset is their willingness to spend like the 90’s Yankees. they are the Royals with a larger payroll.

      2
      Reply
  103. balloonknots

    8 years ago

    Astros still the team to beat but mariners and angels closing

    1
    Reply
    • Robertowannabe

      8 years ago

      I agree but an injury or two crimps any team. Will be an interesting season in the AL next year to say the least.

      Reply
    • chound

      8 years ago

      That’s cute of you to say, but the Mariners have just struck out swinging on a down the middle fastball. They’re out. The Astros are still miles ahead of them both but the Angels are absolutely better then they were.

      1
      Reply
  104. xscalabr

    8 years ago

    F yes

    Reply
  105. inmateprof

    8 years ago

    As baseball fans, I think the Gerald Ford said it best, “Our long national nightmare is over.”

    Reply
  106. Joe Kerr

    8 years ago

    I wonder if it will ever be revealed what each of the team presentations were. It would be interesting to see what each team put together.

    Reply
    • PhanaticDuck26

      8 years ago

      LA’s was just a one-slide PowerPoint with a picture of Mike Trout’s face on it.

      Reply
  107. HALOStrout27

    8 years ago

    WHAT?!!! YESSSSSS! SEE YALL IN THE PLAYOFFS!

    Simmons
    Trout
    Upton
    Obtain!

    4 Superstars!

    2
    Reply
    • jdgoat

      8 years ago

      I see one superstar and one guy with the potential to be a superstar. The other two are just very good

      1
      Reply
    • yanks02026

      8 years ago

      Simmons aint a superstar and you can’t even spell the Ohtani right, LOL

      1
      Reply
      • halosfan4ever27

        8 years ago

        He meant Ohtani* obtain is just the autocorrect. chill

        Reply
    • jackt

      8 years ago

      I see 3 players and one world that reminds me of those Bros that wear that Obey! crap

      Reply
    • justinkm19

      8 years ago

      That’s one superstar, and someone that could be a superstar but also could be a miss. Angels are known to get the worst out of players

      Reply
  108. terry g

    8 years ago

    Posted on Friday less than a week later he’ll be an Angel. That is quick. Don’t see how he held up the market at all Now, Stanton might be another story. My guess is he stays a Marlin.

    Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      Not impressed Terry. Must have missed your alleged post with all the other posts of people “calling it” for their team.

      See no one cares. You can “call it” then if it does not happen you never mention your post but if by some small chance it works then you post here claiming to know something that you did not

      Reply
  109. imindless

    8 years ago

    Believe i called this. Wheres the24kid lmao

    Reply
    • Stevil

      8 years ago

      Sheer luck with a guess doesn’t give anyone any credit.

      Reply
    • 24TheKid

      8 years ago

      Please lint out where I said Ohtani was coming to Seattle. And I still stand by my comment that on paper the Mariners are better than the Angels.

      1
      Reply
      • 24TheKid

        8 years ago

        *point

        Reply
        • imindless

          8 years ago

          Back to the cellars kid, where you will also find jerry dipoto. Enjoy dee gordon, im sure you think he is a stronger player than mike trout.

          Reply
  110. justinept

    8 years ago

    Was hoping for the Cubs, but if not them, then I’m glad he’s going to the Angels. Hopefully he, along with whatever FA’s they bring in (they have money again…) can help get that team back to the playoffs. As a baseball fan, I hate seeing special talents like Mike Trout not get chances on the biggest stage.

    Reply
  111. Polish Hammer

    8 years ago

    LA..just the small town he was looking for…

    Reply
    • jt3z

      8 years ago

      Yeah he still plays about 45 min away from LA so yes Anaheim is a smallish city

      Reply
      • Polish Hammer

        8 years ago

        Tiny in fact…

        Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      He plays in Anheim which is Orange County which is much smaller then L. A.

      Also moron he never said he would not want a big market. He even had 3-4 big markets on his list of 7. But morons like you read some b.s. from Brian Cashman and spread it like gospel.

      Can you not think for yourself

      Reply
      • Polish Hammer

        8 years ago

        Oh yeah I can think for myself I think you’re a jerk off

        Reply
  112. tytomkiel

    8 years ago

    Trout: “Hi Mr. Ohtani, I’m Mike Trout”
    Ohtani: “I’ll sign here”

    4
    Reply
  113. iamgroot1997

    8 years ago

    Whooo! Let’s go Angels!
    Now it’s time to see how this will play out. Wow so surprised

    Reply
  114. CompanyAssassin

    8 years ago

    If they get one more decent starter (Cobb/Lynn) and a closer (Reed/Holland/Davis) they’re headed to the WS in 2018. The best and possibly second best player in the league on one team, plus Upton. They’ll be strong.

    Reply
    • Android Dawesome

      8 years ago

      Who is possibly the second best player?

      Reply
      • CompanyAssassin

        8 years ago

        Referring to Ohtani, but he could dethrone Trout. He could also flop. Being people were ready to pony up $200M for a player who hasn’t played in the MLB, I think he could be one of the best.

        Reply
    • Rbase

      8 years ago

      Second base and third base are holes as well. They need to fill those up with at least league average players to have any chance at going deep into the postseason.

      Reply
      • CompanyAssassin

        8 years ago

        Yeah, they still have some work to do.

        Reply
    • justinept

      8 years ago

      Yea. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves with Ohtani. The potential for greatness is definitely there. And the cost made it a no brainer for every team to chase him. Landing him is a huge win for the Angels…

      But he’s still a 23-year old with no big league experience. I expect him to become great, but I’d be surprised he was an “ace” or a true middle of the order threat right away. Give it time.

      Reply
  115. Koodle

    8 years ago

    Ayyy called it

    Reply
  116. smkelly1970

    8 years ago

    If you’re gonna take less money by coming to MLB now, you might as well play with the greatest player MLB has- and the Angels have him in Mike Trout. Congrats to the Angels.

    Reply
  117. mannyl101

    8 years ago

    Life long Angel’s fan! Pretty Awesome news today! I just hope the Angels will sign a big starter & “BIG” bullpen pieces! I know, I know we have 6 or 7 starters, but……..

    Reply
  118. yanks02026

    8 years ago

    Hey mariners fans I thought it was a given he was going to you guys. Lol

    Reply
    • Joe Kerr

      8 years ago

      Hello pot, meet kettle.

      3
      Reply
  119. Cubguy13

    8 years ago

    Ohtani seems like a very humbled and respectful person. You don’t see a lot of people, let alone professional athletes who are like that anymore. Congrats to the Angels on getting him. I hope he does really well for them

    2
    Reply
  120. bayareapadsfan

    8 years ago

    The Giants only hope for competing was to get Ohtani and Stanton. Stanton alone isn’t going to elevate them enough. Would have been nice to have him, but the future is still bright in Padreville. Brighter still if they sign Hosmer…c’mon Preller, redemption is only a hundred million bucks away. haha.

    Reply
    • Dock_Elvis

      8 years ago

      100m on Hosmer and they wont have any competition for his services…that ludicrous money.

      Reply
  121. KCMOWHOA

    8 years ago

    Angels still won’t do crap. Maybe squeak into the playoffs and then lose immediately.

    Reply
    • xscalabr

      8 years ago

      Yankee tears are very delicious

      4
      Reply
  122. Frank kemble

    8 years ago

    Congratulations Angels. From a Phillies fan and true baseball fan. Good luck against Houston. ..and Seattle.. And Texas..and Oakland lol I think his rookie year will be impressive but I think they need more pitching and infielders now to make it a playoff caliber team for him. congrats

    Reply
  123. Thurman8er

    8 years ago

    I couldn’t be more excited! And there is still plenty of money to sign a 2B. Man, this is going to be a fun team to watch!!

    Reply
  124. JV

    8 years ago

    Is there a more overpriced dud of a team that he could’ve picked? Good luck sucking for the next six years!!!

    1
    Reply
    • justinept

      8 years ago

      Well, the Rangers and Giants both finished in last place. And the Padres have been bad for a while. So he definitely could’ve picked a worse team…

      But I don’t get the hate for the Angels. I’m a Cubs fan, but I can the intrigue with them. They were in playoff contention for most of last season. And that was despite Trout missing a big chunk of the year. Getting him healthy is enough to keep the Angels somewhat relevant. But there’s more, too. They’ll have Upton for a full year. And now they’ll have Ohtani at the top of their rotation. That’s a pretty good start for a team that’s expected to be in on a number of free agent upgrades.

      Really – it’s not that difficult to see this team making the playoffs next year.

      Reply
  125. xscalabr

    8 years ago

    These Yankee and Mariner tears are delicious. Saying that the Angels will be crap because of their farm system is a dolt move and they signed Maitan. Keep crying losers

    1
    Reply
  126. justinkm19

    8 years ago

    That was a dumb decision

    1
    Reply
  127. Bub_36

    8 years ago

    In other news Giancarlo Staton still hasn’t been traded !

    Reply
    • terry g

      8 years ago

      This made me laugh. Thanks.

      Reply
  128. hojostache

    8 years ago

    As a Mets fan I’m just happy he didn’t go to an already stacked team. LAA still has a few holes to fill, but he’ll definitely make the AL West a bit more interesting for the next 6 years…I look forward to catching some of their games.

    As a lifelong baseball fan I hope he reaches his potential because it’s good for the game and he’ll be fun to watch for the next 10-15yrs.

    Reply
  129. okiguess

    8 years ago

    Kudos to the Angels!! Didn’t think they could pull it off.

    Reply
  130. Dock_Elvis

    8 years ago

    There was some speculation he wouldnt want to go to an organization with a previous Japanese legacy. It’ll be interesting to hear more about why he chose the Angels.

    Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      Yes speculation by people who know nothing

      1
      Reply
  131. 66TheNumberOfTheBest

    8 years ago

    Once it got down to the final 7, I thought the Angels made the most sense for him AND that it would be the best for baseball.

    Angels are now double must see TV between Trout and Ohtani.

    Reply
  132. twins33

    8 years ago

    Angels were the third or fourth team as far as where I expected him to go. California and playing with the best player in MLB. Good luck to him/them. I will look forward to watching him.

    Reply
  133. norcalblue

    8 years ago

    Congratulations to the the Angels!

    This kid knew what I wanted (I still don’t understand it); but, good for him. He and his representatives handled themselves and this process beautifully. Welcome to MLB Shohei–the best of luck to you!!

    2
    Reply
  134. cvarneski

    8 years ago

    Way to wait until after Pearl Harbor Day to drop this bomb.

    Too soon?

    2
    Reply
    • start_wearing_purple

      8 years ago

      Too tasteless.

      3
      Reply
    • frankthetank1985

      8 years ago

      Ass

      1
      Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      No class comment

      Reply
    • cvarneski

      8 years ago

      Boo hoo. Y’all should grow a pair o’ nutz.

      Reply
  135. Mikel Grady

    8 years ago

    Curious what angels promised him as far as at bats during year and what will happen if making playoff push and he is hitting like Mendoza

    Reply
    • Robertowannabe

      8 years ago

      Your answer to your 2nd part is easy. He will not bat anymore if he is not hitting. well enough unless they are well back in the playoff chase. So therefore, the answer is……he will not hit if they are in contention.

      Reply
  136. GarryHarris

    8 years ago

    When the Angels win the pre-season…
    03-04 Vladimir Guerrero, Bartolo Colon
    11-12 Albert Pujols, CJ. Wilson
    12-13 Josh Hamilton

    Reply
  137. Logjammer D"Baggagecling

    8 years ago

    That’s just awful. The angels are terrible. They have no pitching. Before Ohtani. Now they have trout, Upton and Ohtani for hitters. Pujols is almost getting old. He’s at least 5 or 6 years older than he claims.

    1
    Reply
  138. Cat Mando

    8 years ago

    From the press release…”While there has been much speculation about what would drive Shohei’s decision, what mattered to him most wasn’t market size, time zone or league but that he felt a true bond with the Angels. He sees this as the best environment to develop and reach the next level and attain his career goals.”

    It has always, despite multiple rumors, been about how he feels….what his gut says and the personel on the field think (i.e. from the manager on down).
    So much was printed and all speculation. I look at what the players says/said and ignore the rest.

    “The people on the team and in charge of the team is what matters most. I need to have a feeling of wanting to play for them.”

    ““There are still so many things I’m lacking, and I want to put myself in an environment where I can improve, hopefully I can go to a club that suits my way of thinking.”

    As to signing quickly…this is from the Japan Times (Google translation) 11/30, after the 7 questions. “”Otani side who intends to not want to trouble the major transfer market already has information that it limits the candidate to about five teams, and the possibility of early settlement is high.”

    And his promise to baseball fans….”The only thing I can promise is that I will play as hard as I can. And maybe that will inspire other people, that is the most honorable thing about playing baseball.”

    Reply
    • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

      8 years ago

      He’ll never reach his goal of winning a world series. Or well two of them.

      Not with the angels at least.

      2
      Reply
      • Joe Kerr

        8 years ago

        Since you see the future, can you send me some winning lottery numbers?

        1
        Reply
        • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

          8 years ago

          My point is he’ll be their ace. They haven’t had an ace since jeff weaver .. and he was a #3 or 2 at best. They need more pitching. Trout is likely gone when his current deal is up. Pujols is 40 or older.. after trout and Upton they don’t have much offense. Pujols is like Cespedes. Homer,k or dp.

          Reply
        • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

          8 years ago

          Watch all about the Benjamin’s and those will be your lotto numbers.

          Reply
        • Dock_Elvis

          8 years ago

          This cost the Angels relatively nothing as a large market team. They still have the free agent market in front of them…and some splash to lure potential free agents. They arent far away i dont feel. Not when you consider that qualifying for a playoff is possible…and if that happens who knows in a couple of short series. I dont totally love the roster right now…but they have a couple of pieces that are STELLAR….SS that can flat pick on an Ozzie level. We’ll see what happens over the next month. They have all kinds of incentive to build now.

          Reply
      • Cat Mando

        8 years ago

        Wrek……Can you point to one quote of his that said the WS was a primary motivation?
        Can you point to one instance of you selecting the right Powerball numbers to back up your precognitive skills?

        1
        Reply
        • JKB 2

          8 years ago

          @catmando

          Wrek just likes to talk. He knows nothing

          1
          Reply
  139. restingmitchface

    8 years ago

    Wow. Congratulations to all the Angels fans out there.

    As a Dodgers fan, this is like the second best outcome for me:

    1.He didn’t go to SF,
    2. He can only really hurt the Dodgers in the WS,
    3. AND I get to watch him play regularly.

    Reply
    • Bub_36

      8 years ago

      Same here

      Reply
  140. Cubbie Steve

    8 years ago

    It’s refreshing to see a player not be all about the money, it’s just hard to respect a player who doesn’t care about winning…

    Reply
    • mike127

      8 years ago

      Cubbie Steve—-what do you mean it’s hard to respect a player who doesn’t care about winning….where were the Cubs three years ago? Do you think Jon Lester didn’t care about winning? Where were the Astros three years ago? They Angels were in the race for a long time this season. And at this point, to him, there really wasn’t a whole heck of a lot of money to make it about…..

      3
      Reply
    • Dock_Elvis

      8 years ago

      Funny coming from a Cubs fan…the team had a 30 year history of attracting free agents that didnt care much about winning.

      Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      @Cubbie Steve

      Why does he not care about winning? Because he did not sign with the Cubs?

      Reply
  141. Del Boca Vista

    8 years ago

    What is the “connection” he felt?

    Reply
    • Dock_Elvis

      8 years ago

      He comes off kind of old school….and Scioscia is all kinds of that. I dont ever buy the “money doesn’t matter” stuff. Maybe its a connection to Trout whos kind of a throwback too. That’s quite a 1-2 punch.

      Reply
  142. CubsRebsSaints

    8 years ago

    Just doesn’t seem like a great fit. Maybe it is tho

    1
    Reply
  143. radioball123

    8 years ago

    Well now we know that Stanton will be going to the Angeles

    Reply
  144. ken48tribe

    8 years ago

    Well at least this part of the Ohtani/Stanton soap opera is done. Now when will Stanton and/or his rep quit being delusional and decide that leaving Miami is more important than whether he winds up with LAD?

    Reply
  145. tims

    8 years ago

    He wasted the time and effort of a lot of teams during this process. He should have told teams on the East Coast and teams that don’t train in Arizona that they should not pursue him. They all sent in presentations which takes time and effort and he had no intention of signing with any of them. He has never thrown a pitch in MLB or taken an AB. I hope he busts hard.

    Reply
    • Dock_Elvis

      8 years ago

      They STILL would have persued him. Its really on them, and quite honestly Id think getting information from all 30 teams wouldnt be that big of a hassle….there’s been a large amount of time to prepare.

      Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      @Tim-Marlene Sherman

      Cry baby. Boo hoo

      Reply
  146. cjuluca

    8 years ago

    I didn’t see this one coming!

    Reply
  147. lowtalker1

    8 years ago

    Never heard of her
    But the padres will light him up when he comes to town next season

    Reply
  148. 22222pete

    8 years ago

    Like I said, the fact he held all meetings in LA were telling. The fact he chose the Angels shows he really wants the DH spot but Pujols going to have a talk with the kid and set him straight.

    I suppose the Angels may have promised to trade him after 3 years if requested like Ohtanis Japanese team promised to post him when he requested when it came down to choosing to sign with a US team or Japanese as a amateur.

    The could also have promised a Harper like deal which pays him much more than the minimum his first 3 years and then lets him hit arbitration. That deal probably cant happen until ST

    Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      The Angels did not make such a dumb promise

      Reply
  149. greatdaysports

    8 years ago

    I can easily imagine how the presentations went. Depots & Co got up and talked up Seattle, its beauty, west coast and large Asian population. This would go on with a slide show and hands for a half hour. The other presentations would be equally impressive.

    Then Eppler walks in, empty handed and just says “Mike Trout”. Drops the microphone and walks out.

    Reply
    • greatdaysports

      8 years ago

      Dipotto. Sorry.

      Reply
      • greatdaysports

        8 years ago

        Handouts. Sorry again

        Reply
    • angryangel02

      8 years ago

      If he walks in “empty handed” how does he end up dropping a microphone?
      Lol but I agree in thinking Trout had a little to do with the decision.

      1
      Reply
  150. FrankRoo

    8 years ago

    Shame. Was really rooting for him to go to an NL club so he could hit more often. Was looking forward to possible having an actual two-way player that could play OF and pitch in the same game on occasion. Still possible, but more difficult on a team that has a player jamming up the DH spot. He made the right decision likely for his comfort, being in SoCal where the weather is great and Japanese culture is within distance to home. Glad I’ll be able to see him play often as I live close to Anaheim, although I don’t like the Angels.

    Here’s to hoping the Angels get creative and can make room for him to hit, but this smells of a team signing a pitcher, not a two-way player which is a shame.

    Reply
    • imindless

      8 years ago

      Salty much? They already said he will dh everyday after he pitches. Lol goodluck with the hate!

      Reply
    • eelektrik

      8 years ago

      Albert Pujols is set to be entering spring training at the healthiest hes been in years, with not coming off a surgery. The Angels are expecting him to play first base more than DH, giving Ohtani room for at-bats when he isn’t pitching.

      1
      Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      Oh it “smells” that way smart guy? Every team and scout rate him much higher as a pitcher

      Reply
  151. Priggs89

    8 years ago

    And his arm falls off in 3… 2..

    Reply
  152. justin-turner overdrive

    8 years ago

    I like this for Mike Trout. He needs to be on a better team, but this helps. If Darvish gets on board, and a reliever or two and they’re a definite dark horse for 2018.

    Reply
    • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

      8 years ago

      Darvish won’t go to Anaheim. Ohtani wants to make his own legacy and be the sole Japanese player on the team

      Reply
      • Cat Mando

        8 years ago

        And once again a comment with no validity….neither Ohtani or his people said that. It started with this….
        “MLB.com’s Jon Morosi tweets that executives from multiple teams are of the belief that Ohtani’s preference is to sign in a market that does not already have an established Japanese star, though Ohtani’s agents at CAA have not commented on that possibility.”
        Are they the same execs who said the NYY were the clear favorites?
        What Ohtani has said is…..
        “MLB.com: Would it be better for you and Darvish to be on separate teams”

        “Ohtani: Being on the same team would be great, but being on separate teams would also be great, because I would get to face him.”

        1
        Reply
      • JKB 2

        8 years ago

        @Wrek

        There you go again talking out of your ass. Ohtani has no say in who the Angels sign.

        Reply
  153. justin-turner overdrive

    8 years ago

    Also lol at Seattle getting owned – I legit thought he was going there due to so many writers leaning that way, but now Seattle got all that international bonus money for nothing.

    Reply
    • Stevil

      8 years ago

      Most journalists had the Yankees pegged, then the Padres. But way to out yourself as a sheep.

      Reply
    • JKB 2

      8 years ago

      Nobody but you pegged the Mariners as the likely destination

      Reply
  154. Logjammer D"Baggagecling

    8 years ago

    So is he gonna wear #11 or #16. Every time they show footage of him pitching or hitting he has one or the other. 11 for pitching 16 for hitting.

    Reply
    • Cat Mando

      8 years ago

      #11 was his # with the Fighters in honor of Darvish…#16 was the # he wore for the WBC

      2
      Reply
      • Logjammer D"Baggagecling

        8 years ago

        He said he wanted #27 at the press conference but someone else had it. It was in a joking matter. He’s gonna wear 17. Not sure if 16 was retired for Garrett Anderson. I doubt it though.

        Reply
    • angryangel02

      8 years ago

      Considered the Angels have #11 retired, my guess is on #16. Valbuena currently wears that number so either him or Ohtani will wear something else.

      Reply
  155. astros_should_be_fortyfives

    8 years ago

    Mike Stanton goes to the angels .

    Reply
  156. rmullig2

    8 years ago

    So can we start the offseason now?

    Reply
  157. thecoffinnail

    8 years ago

    When he came out with his list of 7 finalist anyone that thought he was signing with anyone except the Angels was delusional.. He is planning on offsetting his league minimum salary with endorsements.. To maximize that value on the West Coast means signing in LA.. He wants to hit as often as possible so that gave the Angels a huge advantage over the Dodgers.. It would have been nice to see him genuinely have interest in signing with a team like the Padres but baseball is a business afterall and he had to do what was best for his career.. I would have liked to have seen him sign with the Cubs though (I am a Yankee fan from NY).. The additional of Ohtani and his minimum salary would have given the Cubs the ability to spend lavishly on their bullpen..
    The Angels have had a sure fire #2 pitcher fall into their laps for a little over $500k a year.. Let’s hope they proceed with caution with him because it seems like year after year the majority of their rotation is on the DL..

    Reply
  158. Thronson5

    8 years ago

    387 comments and counting. That’s pretty crazy itself lol

    Reply
  159. dynamite drop in monty

    8 years ago

    So after all that, it just came down to money?

    Reply
    • dynamite drop in monty

      8 years ago

      Nevermind I totally misread the numbers. I am a dumb idiot head.

      Reply
  160. abmarinerjv

    8 years ago

    Felt a bond with the team my brown eye. Endorsement opportunities. He felt a bond with the mighty USD. Welcome to the home of the Greenback. God bless the USA…… As always.

    Reply
    • Cat Mando

      8 years ago

      It’s cute that you think that.

      Reply
  161. harry h

    8 years ago

    Well Epler pulled it off I knew he was trying hard to make this happen.But I thought that Seattle may squeak by.Now a couple of pitchers & a infielder and I think we have a world championship caliber team.!!! Merry Christmas angel fans.

    Reply
  162. bucketbrew35

    8 years ago

    The Angels are winning the off-season so far with the additions of both Ohtani and Maitan for a pittance compared to their actual market values.

    Reply
  163. sithdude

    8 years ago

    I’m trying to understand the international amateur signing rules in regards to him. He’s signing a minor league contract but will be on the MLB roster. The Angels have 6 years of control. Does this mean he will go through the arbitration process and we can assume he will be a super two?

    Reply
    • sithdude

      8 years ago

      I understand down the line if he lives up to at least half the hype he will or should be offered an extension making arbitration a mute point.

      Reply
    • Cat Mando

      8 years ago

      He signs a stand MiLB contract with no guarantee of a major league slot, although it is assumed he will be there opening day.
      Attachment 46 covers this in the CBA (here is a link to the pdf). Much of the CBA can be a headache to read…..other parts are interesting insights like moving expenses, per diems, guarantees for things like facilities, doctors etc..
      mlbplayers.com/pdf9/5450407.pdf

      Reply
      • sithdude

        8 years ago

        Thank you for the reply and the information. Allot to read through, it answers my question and parts are interesting.

        1
        Reply
        • Cat Mando

          8 years ago

          Glad I could help…I keep things like that, The JDA, The Mitchell Report, The Dowd Report etc… in my favorites just for my own reference and to settle disputes. Funny thing is…on the internet you can copy/paste right from those documents and still have other argue or down vote…lol.

          Reply

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