Angels News: Halos Plan on Waiting Until Last Minute to Potentially Trade Shohei Ohtani

And the watch continues on...

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the biggest story in the league is what the Los Angeles Angels are going to do with two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. The team remains a few games back of the final American League wild card spot but injuries and inconsistent play have pushed them down the standings. 

The team hasn't made up their mind on what they want to do with the impending free agent in Ohtani but we should get more clarity here soon.

MLB insider Jon Morosi gave an update on the status of Ohtani and when a trade could be completed, if ever. 

Sources: The Angels are not close to a decision on whether to trade Shohei Ohtani. They’re likely to wait until the final 24-48 hours before the Aug. 1 deadline. Teams continue to contact the Angels and express interest in Ohtani, because why wouldn’t they? @MLBNetwork @MLB

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 20, 2023

This makes sense as the Angels likely want to make sure they cross all avenues for potential contention this season. Waiting until the last minutes gives them the chance to fully look at the scope of the playoff picture and decide if they want to go for it this year. 

The Angels have won three games in a row and will be welcoming in the Pittsburgh Pirates to town this weekend. They then head out on a road trip that could ultimately decide the fate of the Ohtani decision. 

I'd imagine that if the Angels stay in contention just enough then Ohtani won't be moved. The team is better served having him as they chase a potential playoff spot because their plan A is to win games. 

Owner Arte Moreno has signaled that he doesn't want to trade Ohtani and if he sees even a sliver of hope to make the postseason, he's likely to go down that path. 

These next few weeks certainly will be very interesting and the watch for a potential move continues on the biggest show in the game.