Ohtani: 'I try not to think about' trade rumors

Shohei Ohtani is trying to stay focused on his business with the Los Angeles Angels and isn't paying much attention to trade rumors ahead of the Aug. 1 deadline.

"It's something I have no control over," Ohtani said Monday, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. "I try not to think about it. I just try to focus on this season and not think about all of the trade stuff."

The Angels entered the All-Star break having dropped six of seven games in July. They are in fourth place in the AL West and sit five games back of a wild-card spot.

Ohtani is scheduled to become arguably the most impactful free agent in MLB history at the conclusion of the season. The 29-year-old said he hasn't given much thought to what that process might look like.

"I'm not sure how that's going to be," Ohtani said. "I'm focused on this season right now. I just want (to) do my (best) this year and try to get as many wins as possible."

There have been plenty of reports about teams that will be interested in Ohtani and where he might prefer to sign, but the 2021 AL MVP dismissed them.

"All of those reports are lies," Ohtani said. "They make stuff up. I don't think you should believe everything."

Ohtani is having arguably his best season in 2023. He has a 3.32 ERA with 132 strikeouts across 100 1/3 innings a pitcher and 32 home runs, 71 RBIs, and a 1.050 OPS in 89 games as a hitter.