Ex-Dodgers Star Still Looking For New Contract; Could Angels Get Deal Done?

Los Angeles still needs a new slugger in the middle of the lineup

The Los Angeles Angels still have plenty of money to spend and there are some free agents available who could be worth a deal.

Los Angeles still has a massive hole to fill in the middle of the lineup. The Angels no longer can rely on two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani as the club's designated hitter after he joined with the Los Angeles Dodgers. 

There isn't a single player who could individually fill Ohtani's role on the team. He was the club's best pitcher and one of the best hitters in baseball. Last season, he led the American League with 44 home runs and an on-base percentage of .412. Plus, he drove in 95 runs. 

While it's true there isn't anyone who can fill his shoes, there are free agents out there who still could help. One player who has been linked to the Angels and still could be an option is six-time All-Star J.D. Martinez.

He likely wouldn't cost much at this point but could help the club out as its next designated hitter. Martinez spent the 2023 season with the Dodgers but now is looking for a new home.

The veteran slugger clubbed 33 home runs last season, drove in 103 runs, and slashed .271/.321/.572 in 113 games played. 

If the Angels truly want to try to compete for a postseason spot in 2024, they likely will need another bat in the middle of the lineup. Martinez may not be able to fully fill Ohtani's shoes, but he likely is the best option available to help out as the team's designated hitter.