Shohei Ohtani says he is "very open" to negotiating a long-term contract with the Los Angeles Angels this offseason.
Ohtani spoke before the Angels' regular-season finale in Seattle. The two-way star could have pitched on turn on the final day of the season but opted to skip his final start.
"Of course, I'll be very open to negotiation. The team is supporting me for this whole four years, and I'm really appreciative of that," Ohtani said through an interpreter. "Whether or not there's any contract extensions I just want to, like I said earlier, be ready and be ready for next season."
Ohtani finished his fourth season with the Angels and is signed to an $8.5 million, two-year contract that pays $5.5 million next year in its final season. He is eligible for salary arbitration after the 2022 season and free agency following the 2023 season.