Angels News: Shohei Ohtani Not Going on Injured List For Now

A sigh of relief for the organization.

After suffering another injury taking swings in batting practice, Shohei Ohtani's recent ailment doesn't appear to be one that'll keep him sidelined for very long. 

Impacted by an oblique strain for his most recent setback, the Angels didn't make any roster moves on Tuesday to indicate their superstar would be placed on the injured list. 

No roster moves today, Angels say. Which means Shohei Ohtani (oblique) is not on the IL.

— Sam Blum (@SamBlum3) September 5, 2023

Already affected by an elbow injury that's shut him down from pitching again this season, Ohtani's recent ailment is just another reminder that his superhuman workload couldn't keep up with his body in 2023. 

All but wrapping up the MVP award with a stellar June, Ohtani continued to push for a playoff spot after his teammates went down with injury. 

Still tied for the major league lead for home runs despite tearing his UCL on the mound in August, the unicorn's recent nick was a sobering reminder about how disastrous the 2023 season has been for both player and Anaheim alike. 

Buying at the trade deadline to aid Ohtani in both the lineup and the pitching core, the moves the team made simply didn't pan out and left fans frustrated with the results. 

Sitting far below their fellow AL West counterparts of Texas, Seattle and Houston who are fighting for the division crown, the Angels recently got swept by the cellar dwelling Oakland Athletics. 

It's yet another low point of a season that even the worst of their enemies couldn't wish upon the Halos. 

With Ohtani's newest injury, the Japanese superstar might finally pull the plug on his season by getting an elbow procedure and preparing for 2024 either back with the Angels or with another franchise. 

Set to receive a massive contract wherever he signs, we wouldn't blame Ohtani if he chooses to end his year after another season without playoff baseball is surely approaching for his current team.