MLB rumors: 5 biggest threats to Angels for Shohei Ohtani

2. The Boston Red Sox are a threat to sign Shohei Ohtani

The Boston Red Sox have turned around their 2022 season and are currently occupying the final Wild Card spot in the standings. The Red Sox will be clearing a lot of money off the books this offseason, and could be in perfect position to sign Shohei Ohtani.

Nathan Eovaldi ($17M), Enrique Hernandez ($8M), Xander Bogaerts ($20M), and J.D. Martinez ($19.35M) can all become free agents after this season. Much like the aforementioned San Francisco Giants, the Red Sox may have to get into a bidding war for Ohtani’s services just to keep him away from their division rival, the New York Yankees.

1. The Los Angeles Dodgers are a threat to sign Shohei Ohtani

The biggest threat to the Los Angeles Angels when it comes to signing Shohei Ohtani is the team located just down the road. The Los Angeles Dodgers will be in the mix to sign Ohtani if he becomes a free agent after next season.

The Dodgers aren’t afraid to spend money and have been one of the most successful teams over the past decade. If winning is one of Ohtani’s primary motivations, then the Dodgers will certainly be in the mix.

There is a good chance that the Los Angeles Angels can retain Shohei Ohtani, but if the two sides do not agree to a contract extension after the 2022 season, one would expect the superstar to enter free agency after next season and entertain all the options.