Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani is baseball’s biggest name up for grabs this offseason. And his future is up in the air.
Ohtani is a ‘top priority’ for the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason and the team is ‘cautiously optimistic’ about courting him away from the Angels, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The 29-year-old stands out from the rest because of his ability to dominate as a pitcher and hitter, something he has done since entering Major League Baseball in 2018.
Ohtani underwent elbow surgery in September and the injury will prevent him from pitching until 2025. That makes any short-term investment in the Japanese superstar all about his offense.
The Dodgers are reportedly hopeful that they ‘(check) as many boxes as any other suitor,’ with the team’s pitch expected to include identifying itself as an established winner, something the Angels have not been in Ohtani’s six years in LA.
Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani is baseball’s biggest name up for grabs this offseason
The LA Dodgers are said to be ‘cautiously optimistic’ about courting him away from the Angels
Another part of the team’s pitch is expected to be how it has helped previous pitching acquisitions through injuries, such as Walker Buehler.
It is unclear what will drive Ohtani’s next move. The biggest question marks include how long he is willing to commit to one franchise and how much money he wants.
Should Ohtani wish to be as close to possible to his native Japan, and join a team with the most resources to win now, the Dodgers appear to be the best choice.
If his choice is based purely on money, the Dodgers are reportedly expected to face more competition.
Ohtani’s next contract could be the most lucrative in MLB history, topping current teammate Mike Trout’s 12-year, $426.5million deal.
Injury meant Ohtani’s last game of this season came on Septemer 3 but he still led the American League in home runs (44) and in OPS (1.066).
