Shohei Ohtani Trade Rumors: Angels to Decide Star's Future 1-2 Days Before Deadline

The Los Angeles Angels face a franchise-altering decision this summer when it comes to Shohei Ohtani, who is set to become a free agent following the 2023 campaign.

However, the club is "not close to a decision on whether to trade" the Japanese phenom and is "likely to wait until the final 24-48 hours before the Aug. 1 deadline," according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.

The news comes as little surprise with the Angels still in contention for the playoffs sitting just 4.5 games back of an American League wild card spot with a 49-48 record.

However, if the Angels opt not to trade Ohtani, the franchise risks losing him for nothing in free agency over the winter, which is very possible given his disdain for losing. The Halos haven't reached the postseason since 2014, and Ohtani is eager to contend for a World Series title.

If the Angels decide to trade him, they're due to receive significant compensation that can help accelerate a potential rebuild.

While it's difficult to put a price tag on a one-of-a-kind player, Morosi reported Wednesday on MLB Central that league executives believe the club could be seeking a Juan Soto-level package in exchange for Ohtani.

The San Diego Padres acquired Soto from the Washington Nationals in August 2022 in exchange for Luke Voit and prospects MacKenzie Gore, Jarlin Susana, CJ Abrams, Robert Hassell III and James Wood.

Ohtani, the 2021 American League MVP, is putting together another MVP-worthy campaign that could see him break Aaron Judge's AL single-season home run record. The 29-year-old is slashing .306/.397/.678 with 35 home runs, 76 RBI and 11 stolen bases in 95 games.

Judge set the AL single-season home run record during the 2022 season, launching 62 baseballs into orbit en route to claiming the AL MVP award.

Ohtani is also having an impressive season on the mound, posting a 7-5 record, 3.50 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 139 strikeouts in 105.1 innings across 18 starts.

Given Ohtani's caliber, he's expected to become the highest-paid player in major league history on his next deal, whether the money comes from the Angels or elsewhere. Some players around the league believe he'll land a contract around $600 million, but only time will tell what clubs believe he's worth.