MLB Rumors: Grading two Cardinals trade packages, fit for Shohei Ohtani

Angels, Shohei Ohtani — Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels looks on from first base during the fifth inning of a game against the Houston Astros at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on July 14, 2023 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

MLB Rumors: Grading the Orioles’ fit for a Shohei Ohtani trade

The Baltimore Orioles’ farm system is loaded. They are probably best positioned to make a trade for Shohei Ohtani, if indeed the Los Angeles Angels make him available.

Shohei Ohtani to the Orioles? Well, that possibility depends on a number of factors — including Shohei’s blister. Here’s my reporting on @MLBNetwork today. @MLB @MLBNetworkRadio pic.twitter.com/C37kHAp857
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 17, 2023

But the industry expectation is that Ohtani is going nowhere. The belief seems to be that Angels will hold onto Ohtani, as Angels owner Arte Moreno does not want to be the team owner responsible for moving Ohtani.

The thought of Ohtani, perhaps the best player in baseball history, ending up in Baltimore on a young, exciting Orioles roster is what dreams are made of. But that’s essentially what it is. A dream. Because it isn’t happening this trade deadline.

Grading the fit: 9/10.

Grading the reality: 1/10.