Insider Predicts Stunning Possible Shohei Ohtani Trade Destination

The Shohei Ohtani Saga continues in Anaheim. Will the Los Angeles Angels trade the two-way superstar? We heard from MLB Insider Jon Morosi over the weekend that they're now open to offers. And of course, the first names that come to mind are the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Texas Rangers and the other big spenders and big market teams.

But now Morosi suggests a shocking new destination that makes a ton of sense for Ohtani at the trade deadline — the Baltimore Orioles.

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

The Orioles have been the surprise team in the American League this season, pushing the Tampa Bay Rays for top spot in the East, with an unexpected 57-36 record. And they have a ton of elite prospects and young major leaguers that they could package to the Angels.

"The Orioles really do have a lot of appeal as a potential trade partner," said Morosi on MLB Network, "because they have the kind of young talent that could entice the Angels to at least consider moving the great Shohei Ohtani."

They have four of the top 36 prospects in the sport right now, and that's not even including the likes of Gunnar Henderson and Grayson Rodriguez who don't even count as "prospects" anymore.

But Morosi does add a caveat: "The only way that it really makes sense for the Orioles to get him, is if he's able to pitch often, and well, over the final two months of the regular season. And that right now is the big question.

"Pitching has been an issue for Shohei in recent weeks because of a blister."

Although overall he has a 3.50 ERA with a 1.12 WHIP and 12 strikeouts per nine, he has struggled a bit of late: In his last seven starts, he has a 4.46 ERA with a 1.39 WHIP. And in his last two starts, he's given up 9 earned runs in 10 innings.

So this is certainly something to watch, and a team that isn't expected to be able to sign Ohtani long-term (like the O's) would certainly have to think twice about giving up the farm if his pitching form doesn't improve quickly.

Photo: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports