Shohei Ohtani’s future in MLB consumes All-Star Weekend talk among players: 'He's the Babe Ruth of today'

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SEATTLE – The best in MLB were on full display in Seattle for the All-Star game, but it became apparent quickly that one took center stage whenever he stepped on the field or sat at a microphone.   

Shohei Ohtani isn’t just an All-Star. He’s a global icon. That’s no disrespect to the other greats in the game today. Even they understand how unprecedented his play has been since he made the leap from Japan to MLB. 

But Ohtani’s elite ability to pitch and hit wasn’t why he was the talk of the Emerald City this weekend. His contract is up after this year with the Los Angeles Angels. 

With the trade deadline approaching, rumors and speculation have consumed experts and fans alike, wondering if the Angels will move him or wait to see what happens in free agency. 

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Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels during Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at T-Mobile Park July 10, 2023, in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Either way, Ohtani is expected to land a nine-figure deal before the 2024 season. Many, including former slugger Gary Sheffield, don't believe it will be with the Angels. 

"Oh, he’s definitely leaving," Sheffield told Fox News Digital with a big grin at The Players’ Party hosted by the MLB Players' Association, Lids and Topps. 

"He’s the Babe Ruth of today. People talk about what Babe Ruth did. You can’t do more than what he’s doing right now. He’s the inspiration to all of our kids. When we go home, that’s what our kids are talking about right now."

ANGELS' SHOHEI OHTANI WANTS TO WIN AS FREE AGENCY LOOMS: ‘SUCKS TO LOSE’

Entering the break, the 29-year-old Ohtani leads the