Angels’ Shohei Ohtani wants to win as free agency looms: 'Sucks to lose'

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The Los Angeles Angels have failed to make the postseason for the last eight years, last making the playoffs two years before Shohei Ohtani burst onto the scene. 

Ohtani has been masterful in his first five seasons, winning the 2021 AL MVP and setting numerous records as the modern-day Babe Ruth. 

Los Angeles Angels' Shohei Ohtani runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the 12th inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Monday, June 12, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Yet, Ohtani’s brilliance has not led to winning, with the Angels failing to finish above .500 in each of his five seasons. 

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It appears to be wearing on Ohtani, who has made it clear he values winning as he approaches his massive payday. 

"Those feelings get stronger year by year," Ohtani said Monday through his interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, per The Athletic. "It sucks to lose. [I want] to win."

Ohtani is in the final year of his deal with the Angels, signing a one-year, $30 million deal in October to avoid arbitration.  

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Shohei Ohtani, #17, pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Chicago White Sox played on June 27, 2023 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California. (John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The two-way star is expected to sign the largest deal in Major League history when he becomes a free agent at the end of the season.

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"I’ve never been a free agent before, so I’m not sure how that’s gonna be," Ohtani said. "I’m