Like everyone else, the Los Angeles Angels are waiting to find out where two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will play in the upcoming campaign. It is anticipated that he will depart from the Halos, which will leave a significant hole in the lineup.
But in the event that Ohtani departs the team, MLB insider Mark Feinsand of MLB.com has connected the Angels to slugger J.D. Martinez this winter.
“Shohei Ohtani may sign with another team, in which case the Angels will look to fill the position of designated hitter. Martinez, who plays for the Dodgers nearby, had an outstanding season in which he hit 33 home runs, 103 RBIs, and a.893 OPS in 113 games. Even though he’s not Ohtani, who is?”
Martinez would be a great choice for the designated hitter position as he is the next best player available. He could provide some seasoned leadership to the Halos clubhouse after having a fantastic season with the Dodgers.
The most important query is whether he would be open to joining the Angels, who aren’t really a contender. Martinez probably wants to be on a winning team and get paid at this stage of his career.
But if he did join the Angels, they would benefit greatly. He helped set records with the Dodgers offense, and while the Angels lineup isn’t as strong, he could provide them a true power-hitting bat.
Marinez and star outfielder Mike Trout could make the Halos lineup lethal, and opposing pitchers would fear it. All he does is mash the ball, something that any team could benefit from.
Ohtani holds all the cards here because it has been rumored that if he doesn’t land with the Dodgers, they will pivot back to Martinez. It remains to be seen where Martinez and Ohtani both land, but the offseason is just getting started.
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