Shohei Ohtani Unhappy in LA? Dodgers’ Superstar Linked to Surprise AL East Team

By Oliver Wiener June 19, 2025 09:39

Shohei Ohtani’s arrival in Los Angeles with the Dodgers was heralded as a landmark moment for Major League Baseball a chance to witness the two-way superstar in a new uniform, blending pitching prowess with elite hitting. Yet, as the 2025 season unfolds, whispers of dissatisfaction from Ohtani have begun to surface, fueling speculation that the Dodgers’ prized asset may be eyeing a move to an unexpected American League East contender.

Ohtani, who made his Dodgers pitching debut in mid-June after recovering from Tommy John surgery, has impressed with his bat and arm. He leads MLB with 44 home runs and boasts a .413 on-base percentage, reaffirming his status as one of the game’s most dynamic players. However, behind the scenes, sources reveal that Ohtani declined a significant role adjustment before his first pitching start, signaling possible unease with how the Dodgers are managing his workload and role.

The Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts disclosed that the team proposed a “big change” to Ohtani’s routine, which the star declined, highlighting a potential disconnect in expectations. While Ohtani is expected to pitch roughly once a week, gradually increasing his innings, the balance between his pitching and hitting duties remains delicate.

Adding to the intrigue, recent reports have cooled the notion of Ohtani moving to the Dodgers via trade, with insiders emphasizing that the Los Angeles Angels, his former team, are unlikely to deal him to their crosstown rivals. This has shifted attention to other teams, particularly in the AL East, as potential suitors should Ohtani seek a new home.

Among those, the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as a surprising but logical destination. The Jays, boasting a young core and deep pockets, have been linked to aggressive moves at the trade deadline and free agency. Their competitive window aligns with Ohtani’s prime years, and their ballpark-friendly environment could maximize his offensive output.

Ohtani’s contract situation further complicates matters. With free agency looming after the 2025 season, insiders suggest he may prefer a shorter, high-value deal with opt-outs, allowing flexibility based on his health and performance. This approach reflects caution given his recent elbow surgery and the physical demands of being a two-way player.

Despite the rumors, Ohtani remains committed to showcasing his full skill set. His recent pitching debut was met with optimism, and the Dodgers are eager to integrate the complete Shohei experience. Yet, the underlying tension about his role and future cannot be ignored.

Statistically, Ohtani’s impact is undeniable. Beyond his league-leading power numbers, he maintains a .658 slugging percentage and continues to influence games both on the mound and at the plate. His presence elevates any team’s championship aspirations, making him a coveted asset.

In a game increasingly specialized, Ohtani’s dual-threat ability is rare and valuable, but managing his health and role remains a challenge. The Dodgers’ handling of this balance and Ohtani’s satisfaction with it may determine whether he stays in Los Angeles or pursues a fresh start elsewhere.

While Shohei Ohtani’s tenure with the Dodgers has begun with promise, whispers of unhappiness and role disagreements have sparked speculation about a potential move, with the Toronto Blue Jays standing out as a surprise AL East candidate. As the July 31 trade deadline approaches, the baseball world watches closely, knowing any shift involving Ohtani could reshape the competitive landscape.