July 28th, 2023 Week 16: MLB News and Rankings

As of Jul 26, 2023, the Los Angeles Angels have made a significant decision regarding their two-way superstar, Shohei Ohtani. Instead of trading him before the Aug. 1 trade deadline, they have decided to keep him on their roster and make a push for the playoffs. This decision has major implications for Ohtani, the Angels, and the league as a whole.

For Shohei Ohtani and the Angels, it shows their commitment to making a competitive run for the playoffs before Ohtani becomes a free agent in the upcoming offseason. Currently, with a record of 52-49, the Angels are four games behind the final AL Wild Card spot, and they are eager to secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2014.

This decision also impacts the trade market significantly. Ohtani availability was a unique proposition for teams as they could acquire both an elite hitter and a frontline starting pitcher in a single player. With Ohtani off the market, teams will no longer have this option, which may lead them to pursue other trade targets instead. It's possible that Ohtani's absence from the trade market could expedite more trades in the days leading up to the trade deadline. Prior to this decision, the uncertainty around an Ohtani trade was reportedly slowing down the trade market, as teams were waiting to see if they could make a deal for the coveted superstar. Now, with Ohtani staying put, other players might become more appealing trade targets for teams in need of bolstering their roster. 

Week 17 - Power Rankings

1. Atlanta Braves (64-35) 
2. Baltimore Orioles (62-40)
3. TB Rays (62-43) 
4. LA Dodgers (58-43) 
5. Texas Rangers (59-43)
6. Houston Astros (58-44) 
7. Arizona D-Backs (55-48) 
8. Milwaukee Brewers (57-46)
9. Toronto Blue Jays (57-46)
10. SF Giants (55-47)

On the Move