Japan’s Ohtani chooses Angels

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Shohei

Ohtani has decided he’s on the side of the Angels.

The Japanese two-way standout ballplayer announced Friday he will sign with the Los Angeles Angels, ending the sweepstakes surrounding his move to the majors in a surprising destination.

Ohtani, 23, who intends to be both a starting pitcher and an everyday power hitter, turned down interest from every other big-league club to join two-time MVP Mike Trout and slugger Albert Pujols with the Angels.

Ohtani and his agent, Nez Balelo, issued a statement announcing the decision after meeting with several finalists for his services earlier in the week.

Balelo said the 2016 Japanese MVP “felt a true bond with the Angels. He sees this as the best environment to develop and reach the next level and attain his career goals.”

Ohtani is expected to be both a right-handed starting pitcher and a left-handed designated hitter for the Angels, who are expected to give him ample playing time in both roles.

He received serious attention from Seattle and Texas, who both could have given him more money than the Angels.

“We are honored Shohei Ohtani has decided to join the Angels organization,” the franchise said in a brief statement.

Ohtani’s new teammates greeted the news joyously. Left fielder Justin Upton tweeted , “So pumped right now…”

Trout, who is getting married this weekend to his longtime girlfriend, simply sent out the emoji of two bugged-out eyes .