The Los Angeles Angels have had recent trade discussions with other teams about Shohei Ohtani as the Aug. 1 trade deadline approaches, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported Monday.
Later in the day, Morosi reported that the Arizona Diamondbacks and Baltimore Orioles are among the teams that have been in contact with the Angels regarding a deal for the 2021 AL MVP.
Ohtani's status looms large over the franchise as his contract runs out after this year.
The Angels (51-49) entered play Monday four games out of the final wild-card spot, held by the Toronto Blue Jays, in the American League.
Ohtani's last start on the mound prior to the deadline currently is scheduled for Friday at Rogers Centre against the Blue Jays.
The heavy favourite to win the American League MVP award this year, Ohtani leads the majors with 36 homers this year. He is slashing .302/.398/.674 with 77 RBI, 60 walks and 102 strikeouts.
As a pitcher, Ohtani is 8-5 with a 3.71 ERA.
Ohtani, 29, arrived in the majors with the Angels in 2018 and was AL rookie of the year. He has been an all-star the past three years and was AL MVP in 2021.
This year, Ohtani also led Japan to the World Baseball Classic championship.
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