Los Angeles Angels' players pushing to get stars Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout into the postseason after 8-year playoff drought
One has to commend Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout for their loyalty to the Los Angeles Angels organization.
The two superstars have combined for four MVP awards, 12 All-Star Games and two Rookie of the year Awards. Trout is a member of the prestigious 30-30 club and Ohtani was named the 2021 Male Athelete of the Year. These are two of the biggest names in baseball.
Projected leadoff hitter Taylor Ward understands just how important it is for the Los Angeles Angels to make the playoffs this season. He said:
"We want to get Mike and Shohei to the playoffs, because they deserve to be there"
The club has failed to reach playoffs since finishing 98-64 in 2014.
"If our big boys can stay healthy, there's no doubt in my mind that we'll make the playoffs."
#Angels projected leadoff hitter @Warrdyboy7 will be tasked to set the table for Trout and Ohtani.
@Angels | #GoHalos https://t.co/gHVhan3gDZ
"'If our big boys can stay healthy, there's no doubt in my mind that we'll make the playoffs.' #Angels projected leadoff hitter @Warrdyboy7 will be tasked to set the table for Trout and Ohtani. @Angels | #GoHalos" - MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM
With Trout set to turn 32 and Ohtani 29 next season, time is running out for these two. Both players will be desperate to make their mark in the postseason and win a championship in their careers.
The fact that Shohei Ohtani is set to become a free agent adds pressure to start the season well. A slow start may cause the Japanese star to resist signing an extension and look for opportunities elsewhere.
The Los Angeles Angels currently hold the longest playoff drought in MLB
The Los Angeles Angels' eight-year playoff drought is currently the longest in MLB (tied with the Detroit Tigers).
Mike Trout was a member of the 2014 side, but it is important to note that it was the only playoff appearance of his career. The Angels have only reached the postseason once since 2010.
The Angels and Tigers are now tied for the longest playoff drought in MLB, having last made it in 2014 https://t.co/A4QQ9gHtfZ
"The Angels and Tigers are now tied for the longest playoff drought in MLB, having last made it in 2014" - Talkin' Baseball
The Angels have added some key pieces to fill out the roster during the offseason. Former Milwaukee Brewer Hunter Renfroe will add power to the already potent offense. Veteran MLB position players Brandon Drury and Gio Urshela have also been added to the roster.
On the defensive side, the Angels signed former Los Angeles Dodger starter Tyler Anderson and reliever Carlos Estevez.
On paper, this team has a plethora of talent. Tyler Ward made a valid point. If this roster can stay healthy, there is no reason why the Angels cannot compete with the Houston Astros for the division.