Four teams – the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball (MLB) – are actively competing to sign superstar Shohei Ohtani, 29, ESPN reported on Feb. 2.”The Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and other teams that were interested in Ohtani earlier in the free-agent market have dropped out of the running,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported, citing sources.”Ohtani could receive at least $550 million in total contract value,” the report added, “with another source predicting a $600 million deal.””Either way, Ohtani is on pace to break Mike Trout’s (Los Angeles Angels, $426.5 million, 12 years) record for the largest contract in North American professional sports,” ESPN said.
After making MLB history as a two-hitter, Ohtani is eligible for free agency after the 2023 season.He injured his elbow during the 2023 season and will only be able to play designated hitter next season, but many teams around the league are unpacking their cash packages and sending him suitors.”If Ohtani finalizes his deal, it could energize the stagnant free agent market for outfielders, with Cody Bellinger, Matt Chapman and Jeong-hoo expected to sign full-fledged contracts,” ESPN said.The outlet noted that Lee could end up with Kim’s former team, the San Diego Padres.”San Diego is looking to trade outfielder Juan Soto, who is a free agent after the 2024 season,” ESPN reported, “and if the Padres deal Soto and add a pitching prospect, they could jump 카지노사이트킹 into the bidding for Lee to bolster their batting order.”
