In a major announcement, Shohei Ohtani revealed on Saturday afternoon that he will be signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The news came via his social media channels, where Ohtani apologized for the delay in making his decision. The deal struck with the Dodgers is nothing short of historic, spanning an impressive 10 years and a staggering $700 million.
While the outcome may not have been surprising to some, it marks a somber day for Toronto Blue Jays fans who were holding out hope until the last moment. Reports on Friday had suggested that Ohtani was en route to Toronto, only for the information to be proven false.
The anticipation surrounding Ohtani’s free agency had reached unprecedented levels, with baseball enthusiasts eagerly awaiting confirmation of which team would secure the services of the two-time American League MVP. Ohtani, still in his 20s, has showcased exceptional skills both as a batter and a pitcher, making him one of the most coveted players in the league. However, he is recovering from major elbow surgery, and his 2024 season is expected to predominantly feature him as a designated hitter.
Ohtani’s recent performance on the field has been nothing short of spectacular, with a remarkable season that arguably stands as one of the best in MLB history. As a hitter, he boasted a slash line of .304/.412/.654, leading the American League with 44 home runs, 102 runs scored, 95 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. On the pitching mound, he achieved a 10-5 record with a 3.14 ERA in 23 starts, accumulating 167 strikeouts in 132 innings.
This Is a Record-Breaking Deal in Sports
The magnitude of the $700 million contract has raised eyebrows across the industry, representing a staggering sum even for a player of Ohtani’s caliber. What he will receive from the Los Angeles Dodgers is the largest guarantee in sports history.
Ohtani’s contract incorporates substantial deferred payments, a concept reportedly initiated by Ohtani himself. By deferring a significant portion of his salary, the Dodgers can mitigate the impact on the competitive-balance tax, ultimately lowering the immediate financial burden. This strategic approach enables the team to allocate resources more efficiently, fostering the opportunity to construct a more formidable roster around Ohtani.
As the baseball world reacts to this groundbreaking deal, it underscores Ohtani’s extraordinary talent and impact on the game, setting a new standard for contracts in Major League Baseball history.
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