In a bold move, the Los Angeles Angels have solidified their position as deadline buyers by acquiring right-handers Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez from the Chicago White Sox. This trade comes after weeks of trade rumors surrounding the Angels' two-way star, Shohei Ohtani. The team's World Series odds have already dropped from +15000 to +6600 following the news of the trade and Ohtani's commitment to stay with the team.

The Angels currently have a record of 54-49 and are 9-3 since the All-Star break. However, they still find themselves on the outside looking in of the American League playoff picture. Despite their recent success, the Angels sit three games out of the third AL wild-card spot and six games back of the Rangers in the AL West. With Ohtani's decision to stay, their chances of making it to the postseason have improved, but they are still considered long shots.

Giolito, who has a 3.79 ERA this season, will join Ohtani at the top of the Angels' rotation, giving them another All-Star-caliber arm. The addition of Giolito strengthens their pitching staff and adds depth to their starting rotation. The Angels' other future Hall-of-Famer, Mike Trout, is also in top form as they enter the stretch run.

Ohtani's performance in the second game of a doubleheader against the Detroit Tigers showcased why he is such a coveted player. He hit his 37th and 38th home runs of the season, solidifying his position as the Major League Baseball's home run leader. In addition to his offensive prowess, Ohtani pitched a complete game, allowing no runs on just one hit. This outstanding performance further cements his status as a key player for the Angels.

General Manager Perry Minasian expressed his excitement about keeping Ohtani and his desire to have him on the team moving forward. Ohtani will be a free agent after the season and is expected to command a record-breaking contract. His exceptional performance this season, both as a pitcher and a hitter, has solidified his value in the league.

With the addition of Giolito, Lopez, and Ohtani's commitment, the Angels are making a strong push to secure a postseason berth. However, they are aware that they are still far from being true World Series contenders. As the trade deadline approaches, the Angels will be looking to make more moves to strengthen their roster and increase their chances of reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The team hopes that their efforts will not only lead to postseason success but also convince Ohtani to stay in Anaheim beyond this season.