Ohtani Spurns Rangers, Signs With Angels
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP/105.3 The Fan) - Japanese star Shohei Ohtani is bringing his arm and bat to the Los Angeles Angels, pairing him with two-time MVP Mike Trout.
Ohtani's agent put out a statement Friday saying the prized two-way player had decided to sign with the Angels, a surprise winner over Seattle, the Rangers and several other teams.
Statement from Shohei Ohtani's agent regarding his decision to sign with the Los Angels Angels pic.twitter.com/eUmBzEOGWq
— T̷R̷O̷Y̷ ̷H̷U̷G̷H̷E̷S̷ (@TommySledge) December 8, 2017
Agent Nez Balelo said the 2016 Japanese MVP "felt a true bond with the Angels."
The Angels will have to pay the $20 million posting fee Nippon Ham Fighters, but not a huge salary. Ohtani will sign a minor league contact and can receive up to $2,315,000 in international bonus money.
Ohtani was 3-2 with a 3.20 ERA this year, and was slowed by thigh and ankle injuries. He hit .332 in 65 games with eight homers and 31 RBIs.
The Rangers must now turn to plan B this offseason as they'll continue to try and upgrade their rotation and bullpen.
This is a developing news story. Refresh for the latest details.
(© Copyright 2017 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)