Base Ball Star Shohei Ohtani’s $700M deal, Top NFL, NBA players couldn’t believe
Baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani has finalized a historic move to the Los Angeles Dodgers in what is now the largest deal in the history of US Major League Baseball (MLB).
The groundbreaking 10-year contract, valued at $700 million (£558 million), establishes Ohtani as one of the highest-earning athletes globally. The Japanese player, widely regarded as one of the best in the sport’s history, became the most sought-after figure in baseball, sparking a significant bidding war after choosing to leave the Los Angeles Angels as a free agent.
Ohtani’s reported contract value rivals or even surpasses the astronomical sums commanded by megastars like football icon Lionel Messi or basketball legend LeBron James.
Acknowledged for transforming the modern era of baseball with his exceptional skills in both batting and pitching, Ohtani received the American League MVP award in 2021 and repeated the feat last month, despite his 2023 season being curtailed by injury.
Renowned for leading Japan to a historic victory over the US in March’s World Baseball Classic championship, Ohtani expressed gratitude to the Angels in an Instagram statement, emphasizing his commitment to continue excelling not only for the Dodgers but for the entire baseball community throughout his playing career.