The Los Angeles Angels are having a great second half so far, but can they continue the winning ways with all the noise surrounding their team superstar Shohei Ohtani?
The Japanese sensation is regarded as next summer's top free agent, but it seems the Angels organization is already looking that far ahead after reports revealed they are now in "listening mode" for trade offers.
Do other players feel their season is being overlooked?
Shortstop Andrew Velazquez is aware of the noise but thinks their job is on the field and should let the organization handle the other jobs.
"I think we just try to keep it tight in here and just focus on every day - I think everybody's aware of it," he told reporters after their victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
"We're all fans of baseball, and aware of the standings and what other teams are doing."
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For his part, closer Carlos Estévez says keeping the faith in the administration is one way to deal with the Ohtani trade ruckus.
"I think they're going to go out and get the right things," he said.
"And if we get some additions, well, welcome. Let's get some Halos wins."
The team's focus is on finishing the season strong
Angels swept the New York Yankees and went 2-1 at home against the Pirates.
Manager and Phil Nevin want to focus on the momentum they built as they look to finish the season strong.
"It means a lot after how we finished the first half," Estévez said of the Angels' surge. "We figured out a way to get going again, and it feels really good. Things are going our way."
Angels are looking to reach their first playoffs since 2014. General manager Perry Minasian previously said they are unlikely to trade Ohtani if they remain in contention.
Related article: Angels Coach Phil Nevin Says Shohei Ohtani's Rare Display of Emotion Shows He Wants to 'Win Here'
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