Shohei Ohtani’s locker at Angel Stadium was mostly empty last night, according to various sources, including Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. Later today, the Angels are anticipated to release an update on Ohtani’s condition.
Reporters from the Angels discovered that many of Ohtani’s goods were either packed up or completely disappeared after a difficult 11-2 loss to the Tigers on Friday night. The team personnel would not respond other than to suggest that more details would be released on Saturday.
The current American League MVP hasn’t on the field since September 3 and hasn’t played since August 23. His pitching season was abruptly terminated by right UCL discomfort, and he has missed the last 11 games of the season due to swelling in his right elbow.
Shohei Ohtani elbow injury
When Ohtani first experienced elbow pain, manager Phil Nevin told media members, including Alden Gonzalez of ESPN, that it was “just a little bit of swelling” and that he didn’t anticipate Ohtani would need to spend time on the disabled list. He did admit, though, that elbow injuries can be “tricky” at times, thus the Angels were being cautious in resuming their top player. The problem might have progressed past “minor” edema.
Ohtani’s agent, Nez Balelo, said earlier this month that it was “inevitable” that his client will require an offseason treatment on his UCL for upkeep. Ohtani and the Angels may have chosen to speed up that procedure given the uncertainty around his elbow. The two-way star has stated his desire to play in the 2023 campaign, but with the Angels virtually out of playoff contention, fixing his elbow issues is of paramount importance.
It’s unknown whether Ohtani’s elbow or UCL had anything to do with the emptying of his locker. Although more details are needed, it is safe to assume that this is not just ordinary clubhouse upkeep.